FBiH has not procured coronavirus tests, only using WHO donations

SARAJEVO, (Patria) - The third extraordinary session of the Federal Civil Protection Headquarters was held, discussing the adoption of new measures following the declaration of a state of emergency caused by the coronavirus (COVID - 19) outbreak in the Federation of BiH.

Fahrudin Solak, director of the Federal Civil Protection Administration, stated that a new set of orders was adopted today, with the majority pertaining to retail stores. An order was issued to establish triage points before entering social and healthcare facilities.

"An order was issued to suspend public transport in FBiH, both scheduled and unscheduled, as well as rail transport for passengers within FBiH. Taxi services are exempt, provided they confirm adherence to hygiene and epidemiological measures, possess protective equipment such as masks, gloves, and goggles, and perform disinfection after each service," Solak said.

The third order concerns the suspension of retail store operations in FBiH, with exceptions. The following are exempt from the order: grocery stores, hygiene product stores, fish markets, pharmacies, veterinary and medical product stores, gas stations, kiosks, bakeries, dry cleaners, orthopedic and other assistive devices, baby equipment, animal feed, construction, water, and electrical material stores, logistics and distribution centers for food and beverages, and wholesale pharmacies.

"Markets will be closed, except for those selling agricultural and food products, provided that social distancing of one and a half meters is ensured.

An order was also issued to place individuals under detention and in prisons under health surveillance.

Solak stated that discussions were held regarding compliance with previously adopted measures.

Davor Pehar, director of the Public Health Institute of the Federation of BiH, reported that there are a total of 16 cases of coronavirus infection in the FBiH.

"In the FBiH, we have 16 confirmed cases. The latest developments in Herzegovina have increased the number of infected individuals in FBiH. Five in Mostar, four in Konjic, three in Zenica, one in Tešanj, two in Bihać, and one in Orašje. The hygiene and epidemiological situation in FBiH is in a transmission period. Unfortunately, the virus has entered the healthcare system of SKB Mostar, but the situation is moving towards stabilization. The maternity ward has been relocated, and all expectant mothers are being directed to the 'Safet Mujić' hospital," Pehar said.

When asked by a Patria journalist who is responsible for procuring tests, Pehar stated that healthcare institutions should be responsible, but that they are currently using tests donated by the World Health Organization, adding that healthcare institutions are attempting to procure equipment and tests.

"Only cases in isolation and with symptoms are being tested. Testing is conducted in Tuzla, Sarajevo, and Mostar," Pehar said.

Anis Ajdinović, director of the Federal Administration for Inspection Affairs, reported that the Federal Sanitary Inspection has imposed 8,413 isolation measures on passengers entering FBiH at 15 border crossings.

"771 individuals entered FBiH via RS, and 60 via Brčko District. Misdemeanor proceedings have been initiated in 50 cases against those who did not comply with isolation measures. We have issued 41 misdemeanor orders for price increases," Ajdinović said.