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Belarus’ medics carrying out simulations to ramp up preparedness for coronavirus

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MINSK, 3 February (BelTA) – Belarusian healthcare workers are carrying out simulations aimed at strengthening national capacity for detection of 2019-nCoV, Belarusian Healthcare Minister Vladimir Karanik told reporters, BelTA has learned.   
 
“There should be a clear-cut algorithm. If a person showing symptoms of a viral infection shows up at an admission ward or calls an ambulance and this person has visited China before, medical professionals should strictly follow an established procedure. This includes transportation of the person with symptoms of suspected 2019-nCoV to a specialized healthcare facility, isolation, obtaining clinical specimens, disinfection of the vehicle or the admission room and personal protective equipment of the healthcare workers who contacted with this person. Our task is to protect medical staff and general population from the infection. Simulations and practice runs are needed to make sure Belarus is prepared to deal with a virus,” the minister said. He noted that such practice runs will help identify bottlenecks in epidemic response.

Belarus is doing its utmost to prevent a critical situation. Belarus undertakes a number of measures to prevent the virus from arriving and spreading in the country. “It is clear that we live in a highly mobile world and  we cannot guarantee that the virus will not penetrate into our country. However, in case it happens, our task is to localize and curb it inside the country,” Vladimir Karanik said.

Belarus heightened control at all checkpoints, including air and road checkpoints. Those who arrive directly from China and those suspected of having this virus are subjected to in-depth examination. All passengers showing symptoms of a viral infection are redirected for additional examination, diagnostic procedures and treatment.

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