JEDDAH — Two people died from coronavirus in the United Arab Emirates on Friday, marking the first deaths in the country as it battles to stem the spread of the deadly virus. The two men, a 78-year-old Arab and a 58-year-old Asian, who were receiving the necessary medical care in hospitals, succumbed to the infection, state news agency WAM reported citing a statement from the ministry of health. The Arab national, who had come to the UAE from Europe and was infected with the coronavirus, died due to heart attack while the Asian expat was suffering from chronic diseases, including heart disease and kidney failure. The ministry expressed its sympathies and condolences to the families of the deceased. It also stressed that both cases received the required medical care in the country's hospitals. The ministry also said that according to the latest studies, the mortality rate may reach up to 3.6 percent and it increases among the elderly and those suffering chronic diseases. The ministry called on citizens and residents to follow the guidelines and instructions issued by the country's health authorities and conform to social distancing rules.
