Bahrain government reduces cost of rapid test kits

The cost of rapid test kits for the coronavirus (Covid-19) has been reduced, according to a top official.

Major companies and pharmacies can now buy the kits from the government at BD2, which is half the earlier price of BD4, said Health Ministry Under-Secretary Dr Waleed Al Manea.

He was addressing a Press conference remotely from the Crown Prince Centre for Training and Medical Research, Riffa yesterday.

Present were Industry, Commerce and Tourism Ministry Under-Secretary Eman Al Dossary, National Medical Taskforce for Combating the Coronavirus (Covid-19) Monitoring Committee head Lieutenant Colonel Dr Manaf Al Qahtani and Taskforce senior member Dr Jameela Al Salman.

“The price of rapid test kits has been reduced to BD2 and major companies and pharmacies can buy these from the government storage,” said Dr Al Manea.

However, National Health Regulatory Authority in its circular to pharmacies said that the “selling price of the kit was BD2.5”.

In his opening address Dr Al Manea highlighted Bahrain’s vaccination push aiming at 31,000 daily jabs from 31 centres and facilities across the kingdom.

The GDN reported yesterday that the plan to tackle the current spike in Covid-19 cases was being backed by the country aiming to acquire 4.5 million doses of approved vaccines to offer people.

Meanwhile, Dr Al Salman urged people not to spread rumours as the country is battling a surge in Covid-19 cases.

“We ask you to seek information from official sources, do not spread rumours and do not panic,” said the Salmaniya Medical Complex Infectious and Internal Diseases consultant.

“Continue vaccinations as we need higher rates to achieve herd immunity.

“All vaccines are efficient and safe.

“Everyone qualified is invited to register for booster shots.”

Ms Al Salman also called on parents to register children for vaccination as the 12 to 17 age group constitutes a big section of society within families and schools.

“Comply with all precautionary measures. Social distancing is vital to protect the elderly and chronic disease patients within families.

“Follow simple hygiene measures,” she added.

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