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Warning is not enough

ALL those working in pharmacies, sports clubs and health centres face the danger of falling victim to diseases spawned at these places and passed on , some of which could even be life-threatening.

It should be mandatory, therefore, for all such institutions to secure a licence that should be issued only after a thorough examination and review of certificates by relevant and qualified persons.

Violations of the rules and requirements should be punished forthwith with stiff penalties including a cancellation of licence.

More so, after it has come to light that two pharmacies have been warned for recruiting pharmacists without getting the permission of the Pharmaceutical Control Department and the Pharmaceutical Licenses Committee.

Clients of a health centre, a gym or clinic know that they are dealing with a specialist who has been put through the grind by the relevant authorities and only then permitted to take on the job. This is a feel-good factor that makes the clients comfortable, and is also a guarantee that he was not being cheated and that he was in good hands.

We want to say only this: A warning is not enough. The licensing authorities should keep a close watch on every such outfit that could if left to their own devices pose a public health risk.

• UAE