‘2,062 individuals tested by the medical mobile testing units’

Manama

The Assistant Undersecretary for Public Health, Dr Mariam Al Hajeri, highlighted that the medical mobile testing units have tested a total of 2,062 individuals returning from Iran during the month of February, before Iran has announced the outbreak of the Coronavirus (COVID-19) in its cities. Dr Al Hajeri further highlighted that all individuals tested had contacted the hotline no 444, or visited the Ministry’s website to schedule their medical examinations.

Dr Al Hajeri added that out of the 2,062 samples, 2,055 tested negative for the COVID-19, with seven testing positive. Dr Al Hajeri emphasised that all individuals testing positive for COVID-19 have been swiftly transferred for isolation and treatment, and their contacts prior to isolation have also been tested to ensure their health and safety. 

On this note, Dr Al Hajeri underscored the efforts of the Kingdom’s health professionals, who are an important component of Team Bahrain, highlighting the role they play in containing and combating COVID-19.

Dr Al Hajeri underlined the Ministry of Health’s commitment to ensure the safety of all citizens and residents, and added that all tested individuals are provided strict guidelines to follow, including self-isolation and monitoring for 14 days, for which they will receive paid medical leave. The ministry has urged citizens and residents to take various measures to protect themselves from coronavirus. The ministry sources had said that educational campaigns are in full swing to create awareness in the public about the novel coronavirus.

The modes used to create awareness include traditional media, social media and even SMS campaign, which was recently done: “Kindly be reminded to take the following precautions to reduce the risk of contracting the Coronavirus (Covid-19): Wash your hands regularly and thoroughly using soap and water. Use alcohol-based sanitisers.

“Clean and disinfect frequently used objects and surfaces such as door handles. Cover your mouth when coughing or sneezing, and dispose of used wipes properly. Avoid contact with people experiencing a fever or suffering from a cough,” the ministry stated in a mass SMS campaign, which was sent out to Bahrainis and expatriates across the Kingdom.