A campaign to combat swine flu in reform and penal institutions in the northern emirates was launched yesterday by the Ministry of Interior. The initiative will raise awareness among both employees and inmates about the virus and how to fight it, the state news agency, WAM, said. Organised by the directorate of medical services at the Ministry of Interior, the week-long campaign will include lectures on preventive methods.
Leaflets, sterilisers and masks will also be distributed. In addition, a virology laboratory that would be able to conduct swine flu tests in 24 hours will be available before the end of the year in the northern emirates. The laboratory will reduce the time and energy needed to do a test. Samples are usually taken to Abu Dhabi or abroad to be examined, which can take more than a week. The laboratory was introduced by the health ministry as part of its efforts to enhance its curative services in the area. It will be based in Al Qasimi Hospital in Sharjah.
hhassan@thenational.ae
