Omicron cases could climb in Bahrain: Dr Al Qahtani

TDT | Manama

The Daily Tribune – www.newsofbahrain.com

The new Omicron variant could swell the number of existing COVID-19 cases in Bahrain, warned Lt. Col. Doctor Manaf Al-Qahtani.

“The focus of treatment at this state is on those who are not vaccinated or lack immunity or require intensive care,” said Dr Al-Qahtani, the Infectious Disease Consultant & Microbiologist at the BDF Hospital and a Member of the National Medical Taskforce for Combating the Coronavirus (COVID-19).

Take COVID tests “It is necessary to take COVID-19 tests upon detecting symptoms like high temperature, cough and shortness of breath,” he said. He further stressed that Bahrain places top priority on the health and safety of citizens, and all decisions until today have focused this supreme goal.

The transition between levels on Bahrain’s COVID-19 traffic light alert system now follows the average daily cases in intensive care, unlike the number of existing cases as in the beginning, added Dr Al Qahtani.

Bahrain, he said, is moving in the right direction in dealing with the virus, including the new Omicron variant, which has exhibited fewer complications than the previous variants for the vaccinated and those who received booster jabs.

Al Qahtani also called on all to complete their vaccination and booster doses to protect themselves and their family from the pandemic. Highlighting the readiness, he said: “We are prepared to handle any critical cases. Our ICUs are well-equipped and have enough beds for emergencies. We are monitoring the developments on a daily basis, in fact, hourly basis.”

Just ‘one’ PCR test on arrival instead of 3

Starting this Sunday, travellers should take only one PCR test upon arrival in Bahrain, which would cost them BD12. Earlier, three tests were mandatory -- upon arrival, on day five and day 10-- for BD36 or $96.
As per the new decision, passengers have to pay only for a single test. Fee can be paid prior to arrival through the official BeAware Bahrain App, through the Bahrain eGovernment Portal on bh.bh/covidpay, or upon arrival at a designated airport kiosk, where card and cash payments are accepted.

Besides, to gain entry, travellers should present negative PCR test results taken within 72 hours of departure and stay in quarantine for ten days.