MUSCAT — Oman reported 38 new coronavirus cases on Thursday, taking the total number of confirmed COVID-19 cases in the Sultanate to 457, the state news agency ONA said quoting a statement from the country’s health minister. The minister, according to report, also announced two deaths and 109 recoveries since the outbreak of the pandemic. "The coronavirus cases are increasing but we have not reached the climax yet. The precautions taken by the Sultanate, and the pace by which cases are growing can be dealt with," the minister was quoted as saying. Meanwhile, the health ministry called upon all citizens and residents to continuously wash hands with water and soap, avoid touching the face, nose, mouth, and eyes, and follow healthy habits when sneezing and coughing, and strictly adhere to the instructions for social distancing issued by the Supreme Committee and the Ministry of Health and not to leave homes unless necessary. On Wednesday, Oman announced a ban on movement into and out of the governorate of Muscat from April 10 until April 22. Earlier this week, Oman reported the recovery of the country’s youngest coronavirus patient. A one-year-and-a-half baby had contracted the virus from his parents and was admitted to hospital after he suffered rapid, shallow breathing and cough, according a report in Dubai-based Gulf News newspaper.