*** ----> Full Covid -19 commitment must for beating the virus: Dr Al Qahtani | THE DAILY TRIBUNE | KINGDOM OF BAHRAIN

Full Covid -19 commitment must for beating the virus: Dr Al Qahtani

Bahrain achieving the goals of the measures installed last week depends on the people’s adherence to COVID-19 preventive measures, Lt. Col. Dr Manaf Al Qahtani said.

The Infectious Disease Consultant & Microbiologist at the BDF Hospital and Member of the National Medical Taskforce said Bahrain needs the commitment of everyone to preserve the health and safety of all its citizens and residents.

When asked about the number of cases in intensive care, he said there are currently more than 300 active cases in intensive care units. “They are under close monitoring with all necessary support.”

Unvaccinated cases 83%

The number of cases requiring intensive care, he said, reached 326 on June 1, of which 270 patients were unvaccinated, or 83% of the cases. Explaining, he said that the therapeutic protocols adopted by the Kingdom is on par with the highest international standards and had received worldwide praise.

“The largest number of recoveries here confirmes the success of the services, which is in the right direction.” When asked about the protocols for incoming travellers, Dr Al Qahtani said that all vaccinated and non-vaccinated travellers coming from countries not on the red list must apply a precautionary quarantine for ten days in their places of stay or places designated for quarantine.

They should also present a negative PCR certificate taken before boarding the plane, in addition to conducting tests upon arrival and ten days after. He also made clear that the number of existing cases from abroad does not exceed 0.88% of the total existing cases as of June 1. Lt. Col. Dr Manaf Al Qahtani also said that all of the vaccines available in the Kingdom are effective.

article-image

Vaccines boost immunity

He confirmed that vaccination increases immunity and reduces the chances of infection. “It, however, does not prevent infection, but reduces complications when infected.”

When asked about symptoms that need attention, he said those having chronic diseases and above 50 years of age should be hospitalised immediately for having acute symptoms such as shortness of breath and chest pain.

Vaccinate children

On the effectiveness of vaccinating children between 12-17 years, he said the move would help protect them and their families, as it takes up to four days for the virus to start showing symptoms.

He said parents should start registering their children for COVID-19 jabs immediately to increase their chances of returning to regular life.

article-image

Vaccines boost immunity

He confirmed that vaccination increases immunity and reduces the chances of infection. “It, however, does not prevent infection, but reduces complications when infected.”

When asked about symptoms that need attention, he said those having chronic diseases and above 50 years of age should be hospitalised immediately for having acute symptoms such as shortness of breath and chest pain.

Vaccinate children

On the effectiveness of vaccinating children between 12-17 years, he said the move would help protect them and their families, as it takes up to four days for the virus to start showing symptoms.

He said parents should start registering their children for COVID-19 jabs immediately to increase their chances of returning to regular life.