Bahrain is to beef up measures to protect public health and avert epidemic outbreaks under orders issued by HRH Prime Minister Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa.

The Premier instructed authorities to do whatever necessary to protect public health as he chaired the weekly Cabinet meeting, which was attended by HRH Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Crown Prince, Deputy Supreme Commander and First Deputy Prime Minister.


The session was briefed on measures undertaken by the Health Ministry to ward off diseases which broke out in neighbouring countries - including Coronavirus (Middle East Respiratory Syndrome - Mers).

The measures undertaken by the health authorities have paid off so far, as no cases of coronavirus have been detected.

The ministry drew up an epidemiological surveillance contingency plan and sent circulars to all clinics and public and private hospitals on diagnosing the disease, quarantining positive cases and collecting samples for lab tests.

Bahrain's largest seaport is hoping to bolster its role as a key pillar of the national economy. Further incentives would be offered to attract ships to dock at Shaikh Khalifa Bin Salman Port, enhance services and ensure efficient operations.

Last year the number of ships docking at Bahraini ports grew by 2.4 per cent compared with 2012. According to a memorandum submitted by the Transport Minister, general cargo handling soared by 45pc last year compared with 2012.

Deported expatriates will find it difficult to return to Bahrain under a new identity even if they have valid work permits. Latest forensic identification will be enforced at Bahrain's entry points by using biometric techniques including automated fingerprint identification system and iris recognition. The Premier gave orders to review the current print database and suggest ways of upgrading it further. – TradeArabia News Service