Three  coronavirus-related deaths and 252 new COVID-19 cases, including 248 local infections, were recorded on Sunday, increasing the caseload since the outbreak of the pandemic in the Kingdom to 3,314, according to Health Minister Saad Jaber.

During a press conference held at the Prime Ministry, Jaber said that 50 recoveries were registered over the past 24 hours.

The minister noted that the increase in the number of infections during the past few days was due to holding gatherings, such as weddings and condolence houses in some governorates, calling on the public to adhere to safety measures.

Also speaking at the press briefing, Minister of State for Media Affairs Amjad Adaileh said that the government's approach in addressing the COVID-19 pandemic changes from time to time, depending on developments in the epidemiological situation in the Kingdom.

Adaileh also said that the government will continue dealing with these developments in a way that strikes a balance between citizens' health and the sustainability of economic sectors.

The minister also denied reports that went viral on social media about government plans to re-impose a full lockdown for two weeks as of next Sunday, stressing that new procedures will include stricter monitoring on gatherings and practices that can contribute in spreading infections.

These procedures also include reducing the number of employees in ministries and public departments to the minimum level, at the same time guaranteeing sustainable services to the public, he added.

Meetings in ministries and public departments will be held remotely and with minimal participation, noting that the Cabinet sessions will be held through videoconference as of Tuesday, Adaileh noted.

The minister added that visits to hospitals will be banned until a further notice, and a new communication system for patients will be adopted. 

He added that stakeholders will embark on intensified inspection campaigns on all institutions to detect violations.