Five new local COVID-19 cases is a matter of concern, Irbid’s Governor and Head of the district Coronavirus Crisis Management Committee, Radwan al-Otoum, has said.

Al-Otoum said authorities are closely monitoring people’s compliance with social distancing and protective measures such as wearing face masks and gloves.

Health investigation teams are implementing protective measures across Irbid to prevent a coronavirus outbreak, he said.

Additionally, 450 tests were conducted on people who had direct contact with the infected midwife who works at Princess Badea Hospital in Irbid, as well as a further 700 random tests across the governorate on Saturday.

“We urge for all citizens to be aware and to comply with the health ministry’s regulations along with all safety and health measures such as wearing facemasks and social distancing,” said al-Otoum.

He added that the source of the latest infections in Irbid is unknown.