A number of international blockchain-based solutions have taken up the challenge of preventing further outbreaks in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic. The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is the most recent country to propose solutions reliant on a distributed database.

As reported by the Emirates News Agency on March 25, the UAE’s Ministry of Community Development (MOCD) has begun using digital channels to provide government services.

MOCD’s “stay-at-home” priority

The MOCD would be relying on the use of digital identity through blockchain-based systems and chat systems for the digital authentication of official certificates and other documents. This removes the need for users to leave their homes.

So far, according to local media, the implemented blockchain system is capable of processing 2,919 types of documents, which would allow the ministry to regulate the flow of customers.

On this measure, Hessa Essa Buhumaid, UAE’s Minister of Community Development, said the following:

“This step confirms the ministry’s commitment to ensure the continuity and flexibility of all government services in light of the directives of the smart government to reduce the spread of COVID-19.”

These services are being offered through the ministry and smart application’s official website.

Blockchain as a solution in other countries amid the crisis

In other countries, companies have begun incorporating blockchains into their coronavirus solutions as well.

Alipay, along with the Zhejiang Provincial Health Commision and the Economy and Information Technology Department, launched a blockchain-based platform that enables users to trace the demand and the supply chains of medical supplies in the midst of the pandemic crisis.

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) published on March 19 some guidelines to contain the coronavirus pandemic, listing blockchain-based managers in food and agricultural distribution. The DHS stressed that such list aims to help local government to mantain services active across the country, amid the COVID-19 crisis that triggered shutdowns in eight states.

Cointelegraph also reported on March 14 that the Italian Red Cross and the Colli Albani Committee were raising donations using bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies. This was accomplished with the help of blockchain startup, Helperbit. The money raised is now being used to build pre-triage medical posts.