ABU DHABI — The United Arab Emirates on Thursday recorded 2,988 new COVID-19 cases over the past 24 hours, bringing the total number of confirmed infections in the country to 218,766, according to a statement from the Ministry of Health carried by WAM.

The ministry announced five more deaths from complications caused by COVID-19, taking the country's death toll to 694.

The new patients, all of whom are in a stable condition, and are receiving the necessary care, were detected after the ministry conducted 163,100 additional COVID-19 tests over the past 24 hours, using state-of-the-art medical testing equipment, according to the ministry.

In the statement, the ministry stressed its aim to continue expanding the scope of testing nationwide to facilitate the early detection of coronavirus cases and carry out the necessary treatment.

The ministry expressed its sincere condolences to the family of the deceased and wished COVID-19 patients a speedy and full recovery, calling on all members of the society to cooperate with health authorities, adhere to the instructions, and physical distance to ensure the health and safety of all.

It also announced a total of 3,658 more patients have recovered from the deadly virus, raising the total number of recoveries to 199,178. — SG