Bahrain is safe from H1N1

The recent reports revolving around “the widespread of swine flu in Bahrain” has been the main concern for citizens and residents alike in the country, despite official statements confirming that “the disease is under control and that it poses no threat to the public.”

The news posted on local social media accounts yesterday, claiming that “first death due to H1N1 in Bahrain has been confirmed”, apparently pushed people to flock to health centres to get vaccinated against the disease, as many pictured taken there showed.

Noting that the social media networks has a big role in spreading fears among the public, the state moved in quickly to curb the spread of false news on online platforms by intensifying cooperation between government authorities to deliver the truth to the public.

Speaking in a press conference that followed the weekly Cabinet meeting yesterday, Information Affairs and Shura Council and Parliament Affairs Minister and the Official Government Spokesperson Isa bin Abdulrahman Al Hammadi said “swine flu is a seasonal disease and isn’t as deadly as it was when it first appeared in 2009.” 
As per the instructions of the Premier HRH Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa, Health Ministry submitted a detailed report to the Cabinet yesterday on swine flu cases in Bahrain and the procedures taken to confront it and prevent it from spreading.

“Vaccinations are available at local health centres and they’re optional for citizens and residents. The supply of vaccination is sufficient and the processes are ongoing smoothly,” said the minister.