Civil societies and social groups have been directed to refrain from holding any public gatherings for the next two weeks, in line with national efforts to combat the coronavirus.
In a circular issued yesterday, (Labour and) Social Development Ministry Non-Governmental Organisations (NGO) Support administration director Najwa Janahi advised all organisations in these categories to suspend meetings, activities or celebrations.
“Civil societies are urged to adhere to all government instructions issued in Bahrain in the current situation and not to hold any public meetings,” she said.
Speaking to the GDN, (Labour and) Social Development Ministry Under-Secretary Sabah Al Doseri reiterated the call, stressing that it was everybody’s responsibility to support national initiatives to curb the spread of the virus.
“All civil societies and NGOs including associations and groups involving gatherings are urged to cancel all their meetings for the next two weeks,” he said.
“This is a precautionary measure, as we are doing our best as a nation to limit the spread of the virus.”
Senior medics in the country also backed officials, urging people not to gather in large numbers, even in private.
“Ideally private and residential gatherings should be avoided as carriers could be asymptomatic, and could spread it to high-risk individuals,” said American Mission Hospital chief executive Dr George Cheriyan.
“For now, let us avoid unnecessary travel or gatherings.”
Bahrain Medical Society president Dr Ghada Al Qasim said the announcement to refrain from public gatherings is already out there.
Backing the call, Salmaniya Medical Complex Accident and Emergency resident doctor Dr P V Cheriyan pointing out the need to maintain a distance of at least one metre between people.
“This is the standard rule to protect ourselves and avoid any gathering or crowd, be it public or private.
“Although there is no need to panic, safety measures are important.”
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