KUWAIT CITY — Marking a sharp increase in the number of coronavirus cases in the country, Kuwait on Sunday recorded 717 new infections bringing the total number of cases in the country to 31,848. On Saturday, new cases stood at 487.

The Ministry of Health announced the rise via Twitter, giving a breakdown of cases by nationality.

Less than half (331) were Kuwaiti nationals, with 88 Bangladeshis, 81 Egyptians, and 79 Indians.

Kuwaiti officials also reported 10 more deaths from the virus, bringing the death toll to 264.

Of the over 30,000 total cases, 11,379 are currently active, of which 196 are classified as "serious cases."

Sunday's increased number of cases is more in line with Friday, when the Ministry of Health reported 723 new infections. — Agencies