Of late, members of the Inquiry Board of the State of Emergency managed to pay a visit to coronavirus (COVID-19) quarantine centers.
Last Sunday, the board was able to conduct a field inspection of self-contained rooms as well as COVID-19 positive patients in Eka Kotebe General Hospital.
Board’s Chairperson Petros Woldesenbet said, “The field observation is envisioned to deliberate on infection inhibition and control (IPC) strategies with medical specialists. In an effort to decrease the weight and avert deficiencies of medical provisions, healthcare amenities, medical procedures, and possessions inspection is vital.
“There can be no doubt that the COVID-19 pandemic is placing unparalleled strain on the healthcare structures at home and abroad,” he added.
Dr. Natnael Bekuretsion, on his part, Medical Director of the Centre stressed that the center
was able to carry out accomplishments to prevent and control the pandemic before the Center commences operation.
“As of March 13, 2020, 450 infected and suspected patients have entered the facility and 73 patients have been confirmed.” So far, 3 patients have lost their lives, he said, adding that they will work with extreme caution to reduce the number of deaths in the future,” he continued.
As the COVID-19 outbreak continues, healthcare workers are still making an effort to stem the spread of the virus. The principle of their competence is that they put the patients’ interests first, according to him.
By the same token, there are problems with water, electric power, transportation shortages and delays in laboratory results, despite the fact the procurement of vital medicines for patients, personal shielding gear for healthcare workers, testing supplies, and local initiatives that aim to advance responsiveness and appoint communities on the risk of COVID-19 is done.
Be that as it may, members of the board raised a wide spectrum of questions for health professionals in the center that has the capacity to accommodate 700-800 patients.
Likewise, health professionals were able to extend their heartfelt gratitude to members of the board and urge them for their continual visit.
Petros Woldesenbet on his part said, “At the moment, our healthcare workers are on the battle zone of fighting COVID-19. They are giving their all in the path of this virus time and again.
“Health workers are at the combat zone of the COVID-19 outburst reaction and such are exposed to threats that put them in danger of infection,” he wrapped up.
It is to be recalled that House of Peoples’ Representatives assigned a 7-member State of Emergency Inquiry Board to follow up and report its implementation. The Board has officially begun its duties as of 11 April 2020.
The Ethiopian Herald May 1/2020
BY ABDUREZAK MOHAMMED
