MANAMA — The Bahrain health ministry has reported 353 new cases of the COVID-19 coronavirus, along with 538 recoveries.

Of the new cases, 123 were among expatriate workers, 230 were contacts of active cases, and five were travel related.

Two new deaths were also reported. The death toll rose to 181.

As many as 8,998 COVID-19 tests were carried out on Friday, the ministry said, taking the total number of recoveries to 45,166.

There are currently 36 COVID-19 cases in a critical condition, and 75 cases receiving treatment. A total of 3,278 cases are stable out of a total of 3,314 active cases.

Bahrain announced Thursday that it would be lifting the 10-day quarantine requirement for all incoming passengers.

All passengers will still be required to undergo a coronavirus test, however. Travelers will need to pay for two COVID-19 tests on arrival – one to be conducted immediately and another after staying in Bahrain for 10 days. The total cost to the passenger will be 60 Bahraini dinars ($160).

Assuming the initial test comes back negative for the coronavirus, the 10-day quarantine period is no longer in effect. — Agencies