Bahrain tells people not to panic but be cautious against Monkeypox

TDT | Manama           

The Daily Tribune – www.newsofbahrain.com

Bahrain's top infectious disease expert, Lieutenant-Colonel Dr Manaf Al-Qahtani, called on all to remain cautious but advised to shed fears confirming that the Kingdom is fully prepared to handle monkeypox infections.

"There is no need to worry in light of the availability of all possibilities to limit its spread," said Dr Al Qahtani, an infectious disease consultant at the Military Hospital, a member of the National Taskforce to combat the Coronavirus (Covid-19). "Our medical team is fully prepared to deal with developments and take the necessary precautionary measures following health protocols in force locally and globally," he reassured.

He, however, cautioned that the virus that causes monkeypox, like other viruses, is not specific to a specific group and requires awareness from everyone to prevent it. Dr Al Qahtani said Bahrain started preparations to handle the infection several months ago and was "able to discover the first case of monkeypox timely, reducing the chances of spread."

"Health authorities here confirmed the first case in Bahrain in record time, with transparency," he pointed out in a tweet. "We have all the necessary preparations and medical tools for examination, treatment and procedures for tracing contacts with a specialised team to limit the spread of monkeypox.

"Preparations included educating health workers about monkeypox and transmission methods, setting up a mechanism for reporting suspected cases to the Public Health Department, providing treatment and laboratory needs for diagnosis, identifying mechanisms for follow-up cases, tracing contacts, and providing anti-vaccinations.

"The Ministry of Health has been keen to develop an emergency proactive plan to deal with monkeypox since cases started emerging in several countries to preserve public health. Al- Qahtani also tweeted thanks to everyone for cooperating with the Ministry of Health and contributing to taking vaccinations according to medical instructions.