Penajam (ANTARA) - A total of 12 health workers in North Penajam Paser District, East Kalimantan Province, are suspected to have been exposed to the novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19), in keeping with which they have been advised rest.

"The 12 medical personnel are suspected to have contracted the infection from patients with coronavirus," Head of the North Penajam Paser District Health Office Arnlod Wayong stated here on Saturday.

"We are left with no choice but to recommend rest to 12 health workers since the results of rapid tests show that they tested positive," he noted.

The 12 health workers comprise 10 employees of the Ratu Aji Putri Botung Public Hospital and two employees of the Penajam community health center (puskesmas).

The 12 medical personnel are required to undergo other COVID-19 tests to ensure accuracy in results, he explained.

Wayong pointed out that the health workers had worn complete personal protective equipment (PPE) while handling COVID-19 patients.

"It is also possible that they were exposed outside after completing work or treating COVID-19 patients," he added. Related news: On World Red Cross Day, PMI focuses on breaking corona chain
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Translator: Novi Abdi, Fardah
Editor: Rahmad Nasution
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