President of the Supreme Council of Health (SCH) Lieutenant General Dr. Shaikh Mohammed bin Abdullah Al Khalifa stressed resolve to go ahead with taking all preemptive measures to boost the Kingdom of Bahrain’s efforts in combating the novel coronavirus (COVID-19). He pointed out the kingdom’s precautionary measures which were highly praised by international organisations in global health gatherings.

The SCH President, Head of the National Taskforce to Combat Coronavirus (COVID-19), was speaking during an inspection visit to the field intensive care unit (ICU) at the military hospital, in the presence of the Royal Medical Services Commander Major General Prof. Shaikh Khalid bin Ali Al Khalifa. The visit was made as part of the ongoing efforts to fight COVID-19 and get informed about implementation of the preemptive measures according to the highest standards.

Lt. General Dr. Shaikh Mohammed bin Abdullah Al Khalifa affirmed that the precautionary and monitoring strategies being carried out rapidly, including setting the field hospital, aim to dedicate all capabilities in combating COVID-19 and ensure the safety of all people in the kingdom. He lauded the unflinching support of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa and extended thanks to His Royal Highness Prime Minister Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa and His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Crown Prince, Deputy Supreme Commander and First Deputy Premier, for their continuous follow-up on the efforts made by the taskforce to boost the health and safety of all.

In a statement to Bahrain News Agency (BNA), during the inspection visit, he expressed happiness about the achievement which stands witness to the kingdom’s efforts in combating coronavirus which is declared as a pandemic that requires urgent and swift action. He voiced determination to face all challenges, in line with the directives of HRH the Crown Prince, to ensure the safety of all people in Bahrain. He said the field intensive care unit was built in a record time of seven days and contains 130 beds to treat infected cases with COVID-19. He added the unit was outfitted with best equipment and according to the highest standards, which further consolidates the kingdom’s pioneering status in the health field.

The SCH President listened to a briefing on the unit that will be operated by the Military Hospital and which comprises 130 beds to provide healthcare for critical cases infected with COVID-19. The unit is part of the ongoing preparations of the national taskforce to provide the needed procedures to deal with infected cases. He pointed out that the Kingdom of Bahrain will provide 500 beds nationwide to provide the needed treatment when required.

The Royal Medical Services Commander Major General Prof. Shaikh Khalid bin Ali Al Khalifa revealed that the field intensive care unit in Sitra was equipped with 100 beds and will be outfitted with the best equipment to provide optimum services when needed. 

He underlined the efforts being exerted to ensure the safety of all people in Bahrain and prevent the spread of the virus.