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New Haj lab can detect 10,000 types of viruses

RIYADH: In a first for the Middle East, the Health Ministry here has purchased for Haj a world class laboratory that can detect over 10,000 viruses and other micro-organisms with its state-of-the-art technology, according to Dr. Abdullah Al-Rabeah, Minister of Health.

Al-Rabeah said recently the equipment can identify all kinds of microbes, bacteria, viruses, fungi and parasites. Its special technology functions at a high speed and with such precision that there is no need for any laboratory culturing. He said the laboratory will be essential in its bid to keep pilgrims healthy during Haj.

Meanwhile, a total of 135 consultant doctors in various rare specializations will be on duty around-the-clock during Haj. These include cardiac catheterization and kidney dialysis. The minister added that the ministry has carried out numerous new projects.

The development projects this year include the construction of a new emergency building in Hera General Hospital with a capacity of 55 beds at a cost of SR11 million, and the expansion of the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) in the hospital.

There has also been the replacement of infrastructure at Al-Noor Specialist Hospital at a cost of SR120 million and the overhaul of the operating theaters at a cost of SR4 million.

A unit has also been opened for daily treatment at King Abdul Aziz Hospital with a capacity of 26 beds and at a cost of SR6 million.

At the holy sites, there has been the construction of a new building for the Health Centers Administration in Arafat including the equipping of health facilities at a cost of SR3 million.

There are now a significant number of health facilities available for Haj. Dr. Muhammad Bin Hamza Khushaim, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Health for Planning and Development, disclosed that there are now 24 Health Ministry hospitals - seven hospitals in Makkah, 10 in Madina, four in Mina and three in Arafat, with a total capacity of 4,005 beds.

Khushaim said 144 health centers in Makkah, the holy sites and Madina have been readied for pilgrims.

Of these, 127 health centers are in Makkah and the holy sites - 31 centers in Makkah, 46 in Arafat, 28 in Mina, six in Muzdalifa and 16 centers at the Jamarat Bridge. There are also 10 health centers at the Grand Mosque and its courtyards.

By NAWAF AFIT

© The Saudi Gazette 2010