- March 3, 2020
- Posted by: Kinley Wangmo
- Category: News
While Bhutan has no reported case of COVID-19, the recent surge in the incidences in countries beyond China, the first country to report the outbreak, is a cause of concern.
In over three hours meeting held on 2nd March 2020 afternoon, the National Disaster Management Authority, chaired by the prime minister, met to review country’s efforts for COVID-19 prevention and other response mechanisms.
The government has decided to further strengthen the surveillance, with additional focus on early detection, containment and clinical management.
Delving into the details, and with advice from health experts, the authority decided to continue with the practical measures. The members also agreed on further streamlining the use of fund and reduce wasteful expenditure.
Meanwhile, all ministries have discouraged their officials from making ex-country travels. Events, except for the annual religious festivals, are being pushed until situations placate.
Health and police personnel, with support of De-suups and other agencies, have been working for long hours for almost two months at the entry points.
A contingency plan is in place, health screening mechanism at over 17 entry points ensured, quarantine centers identified, and a separate hospital marked and equipped in case of an out-break. Rapid tests are being conducted on all symptomatic people with constant follow-ups.