UAE combats coronavirus: New centre launched to report suspected cases among workers

Abu Dhabi - Testing expanded to other industrial areas.

Abu Dhabi Committee for Crisis and Disaster Management has announced the launch of an operations centre for receiving reports regarding suspected cases of coronavirus in workers' accommodation cities and industrial zones, to ensure the health and safety of these communities.
The centre will facilitate swift delivery of healthcare services in case of infection, Wam reported on Friday.
Accessible through phone 909, the centre was launched to support precautionary and preventive measures taken by competent authorities in the emirate to contain the spread of the novel virus and safeguard the health and well-being of the community.
Testing in more industrial areas
Additionally, Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development noted the free tests will be held in industrial areas across the emirate of Abu Dhabi and not just Mussafah.
"In line with the measures taken to limit the spread of Covid-19, the Department and its strategic partners are carrying out free field medical tests campaigns as a part of its initiative for labourers in the industrial areas across the emirate of Abu Dhabi. All necessary measures will be taken for al infected cases to be contained and treated."
The Department urged workers to cooperate and take part in free tests. Workers can call 8001717 for medical assistance.
Separately, local authorities had recommended that those over the age of 50, or those having symptoms of the virus like cough, high fever and breathing difficulty, should get themselves tested at the free clinics. The service can be availed by even those who do not have a valid residence visa.
Abu Dhabi Police also started awareness drives as vans covered all industrial areas making announcement about the venues for free tests. Two of the many free test clinics are held on 9th and 12th streets of Mussafah.
Workers hope for pandemic end 
The increased focus from the local authorities has reassured workers, who are concerned about the situation in workers accommodation.
"We live in fear that each person maybe positive. When things are not in your hand, the free test clinics come as a big relief. Maybe in few days we will know our status and get on with life," said Prashanth K., who works with a contracting firm.
Another worker said: "I hope authorities do follow-up on our calls. For weeks we all have doubt about many cases. Many are awaiting results. We don't know what's next. We all hope some action is taken," M. Farooq, a technician, said.
Workers, who are in quarantine, or told to stay indoors, are provided food and basic essentials. However, they are all desperate to see an end to days of uncertainty.
All of them are adhering to the national sterilisation programme instructions by staying indoors from 6 pm till the end of the next day.
ashwani@khaleejtimes.com

 

• Abu Dhabi