Bahrain's Health Minister Faeqa bint Saeed Al Saleh said the ministry's isolation and treatment capacities can accommodate all active novel Coronavirus cases, free of charge, for both citizens and residents.

The minister was speaking at a press conference of Bahrain's National Taskforce for Combating the Coronavirus (COVID-19) yesterday (March 220 to highlight updates on efforts made to contain COVID-19, and new measures to ensure the prevention of its spread, a Bahrain News Agency report said.

Al Saleh said the ministry, after requests from citizens and residents, is in cooperation with private hospitals to facilitate treatment for those who wish to receive medical care from a private medical provider based on the necessary standards and regulations.

The minister outlined that it continues to cooperate with the private sector, while continuing to provide free COVID-19 treatment for all citizens and residents.

Al Saleh recognised the noble efforts of the kingdom’s medical staff, noting that their role is pivotal to containing the spread of COVID-19 and adding that the kingdom’s united stance in combating COVID-19 is a source of great pride.

Al Saleh expressed gratitude to all those who have applied for volunteering opportunities, praising their firm stance in the kingdom’s fight against COVID-19, evidenced by the 30,000 applications received by the e-Volunteer platform.

Industry, Commerce, and Tourism Minister Zayed R Al Zayani commended HM the King’s directives issuing a BD4.3 billion economic stimulus package, which will ensure the kingdom continues on its path of sustainable development.

He highlighted that the ministry continues to coordinate with relevant authorities to ensure goods and products are continually available in the local markets, and that hypermarkets, supermarkets, cold stores and bakeries continue to work normally.

Al Zayani assured that all food products stock in the kingdom remained abundant, adding that there is no need to purchase in large quantities that exceed what is needed.

He assured that all food stores are prepared to deliver products when needed, and that the supply of medicine and food remained a priority.

Al Zayani noted that all retail stores will close temporarily, and only delivery services will be available from March 26 to April 9. All such stores will be open again from April 9 to April 23.

He reiterated that hypermarkets, supermarkets, cold stores, bakeries, pharmacies, and banks will remain open and said restaurants will continue to provide services via take away or delivery only.

He urge all citizens and residents to remain at home as much as possible, and leave only for urgent matters if needed.

Public Security Chief Lietenant-General Tariq Hassan Al Hassan announced the prevention of public gatherings of more than five individuals, adding that strict measures will be taken if these guidelines are not followed.

He said gatherings in public parks and public beaches will also be prohibited, noting that all guidelines are introduced to safeguard the community.

Al Hassan said volunteers who applied through the e-platofrm were contacted to assist in disinfection efforts, adding that there are around 10,000 volunteers who have been designated for this particular role. He noted the importance of disinfection and sterilization as a measure to ensure the eradication of the virus.