First cases of coronavirus in BiH raise preparedness level of healthcare institutions in KS

SARAJEVO, (Patria) - The emergence of the first coronavirus patients in Bosnia and Herzegovina, specifically in Banja Luka, has raised the preparedness level of the Crisis Staff of the KS Ministry of Health, which is closely monitoring the further development of the situation.

Instructions and recommendations for the public are once again being emphasized, both in terms of prevention and in cases of suspected illness, the KS Crisis Staff announced.

As emphasized at the entity levels, there is no need for panic, and everyone is urged to act responsibly and professionally in these situations.

The behavior of the population plays a significant role in the joint efforts against the emergence and spread of the virus.

We emphasize once again that individuals with respiratory health problems who suspect a potential infection should NOT come to healthcare institutions, health centers, or hospitals.

Such individuals must contact the duty hotlines of the KS Public Health Institute, which have been published in the media, on the official websites of healthcare institutions, and on the official website of the KS Government.

"We once again urge individuals with suspected illness to contact the following numbers for recommendations on further action: +387 62 086 282 +387 62 030 778 +387 62 030 796 +387 62 030 728. Measures of enhanced health surveillance for individuals arriving from countries where coronavirus has been confirmed are still in effect," the KS Crisis Staff stated.

Furthermore, the KS Crisis Staff's recommendations remain in effect: the youngest, children, and employees with seasonal respiratory symptoms should not attend kindergartens and schools, and visits to residents in nursing homes should be suspended.

A meeting of the KS Crisis Staff is scheduled for Friday, March 6, after which the public will be informed of further recommendations for behavior and action in the current circumstances.