"Up till now, there are 67 people, or 11.9 percent of our health workers, who have tested positive for COVID-19. And 64 of them are still being treated," head of the NTB Health Office, Dr. Nurhandini Eka Dewi said in a statement here on Wednesday.
The 67 health workers are from six hospitals and one community health center (puskesmas) in NTB. They include 8 doctors, 54 nurses, 3 pharmacists, a nutritionist, and a radiologist, she noted.
The infected health workers comprise 38 females and 29 males.
They contracted the virus while treating COVID-19 patients or coming into contact with fellow health workers.
"They used level II and III personal protective equipment (PPEs), but, they (the equipment) are still translucent. Moreover, people who do not use PPEs or do not apply COVID-19 protocols, such as using masks, washing hands, physical distancing, and staying at home (are at risk for contracting the virus),” Dr. Eka remarked.
Most of the positive cases among health workers were reported in May this year, she said.
"In May, one by one, our health workers fell ill, although some have recovered," she continued.
To prevent the transmission of the virus among health workers, infected workers are being isolated and treated at the NTB Hajj Dormitory Emergency Hospital, whereas those who are not yet exposed are being immediately told to stay at home.
"For example, in a team comprising 10 to 15 people, if there is one person who is exposed, the rest will have to stay at home and undergo a swab test twice. Their tasks will be performed by replacement health workers," Dr. Eka said.
The province's public policy services have also been suspended to prevent transmission, she added.
At present, 7,648 health workers have been assigned to handle COVID-19 cases in NTB.
"This is a warning to all of us. Even health workers who use complete PPEs, up to level II and III, can be infected. Moreover, people who do not protect themselves (are at risk). So, let's abide by the health procedures for our common good," Dr. Eka urged.
Meanwhile, director of the NTB Provincial Hospital, Dr. HL Hamzi Fikri, asked people to comply with COVID-19 protocols, such as washing hands, wearing masks, and staying at home.
The public must remain vigilant because the hospital has limited space, he said.
As of May 26, 2020, the number of confirmed coronavirus cases in NTB has reached 537. The number of deaths has been pegged at 9 and recoveries at 272, while as many as 256 COVID-19 patients are undergoing treatment and are in stable condition. (INE)
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EDITED BY INE
Translator: Nur Imansyah, Fardah
Editor: Suharto
Copyright © ANTARA 2020
