ABU DHABI — The United Arab Emirates on Thursday recorded 1,398 new coronavirus cases over the past 24 hours, marking a slight drop in the number as compared to Wednesday"s record 1,431 single-day infections. This brings the total number of confirmed infections in the country to 111,437, according to a statement from the Ministry of Health carried by WAM. Recently, there has been a spike in the number of COVID-19 cases in the UAE, prompting authorities to strictly monitor the compliance of preventive measures. The new patients, all of whom are in a stable condition, and are receiving the necessary care, were detected after the ministry conducted 114,147 additional COVID-19 tests over the past 24 hours, using state-of-the-art medical testing equipment. In a 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 also announced two more deaths due to COVID-19 complications, taking the total number of deaths in the country to 452. 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. The ministry also noted an additional 1,666 individuals had fully recovered from COVID-19, raising the total number of recoveries to 103,325. — SG