Face-covering device all set to come into being

Amir Al Sonny, Staff Reporter

A medical group of the UAE is preparing to introduce a face covering device, similar to a helmet, to prevent infection with the coronavirus (COVID-19).

The National MPF Group said it is preparing to launch the device soon, in the first pharmacy in the UAE specialising in the medical requirements to prevent coronavirus in Dubai, which was opened two days ago.

The group stated that pharmacies would provide the device after it agreed with a Canadian group specialised in supplying the device to be the first country in the Middle East to use it.

The group explained, in a statement, it is a breathing device to purify the air and protect the personal environment of its wearer, which is an outer layer similar to the plastic helmet which protects from airborne hazards.

INVENTION: Four students from Al Khalil Bin Ahmed School for Secondary Education in Khor Fakkan invented a device for smart sterilisation by means of gamma rays, contributing to the UAE’s efforts to combat the spread of the new coronavirus.

Khaled Khalil Al Hosani, academic guide and project supervisor, told Dar Al Khaleej the idea of the device is based on the use of non-harmful rays for humans. He added the process is carried out in two stages, the first using gamma rays and the second using medical gases to sterilise food in homes, textbooks, office tools in schools and the tools used in the shops.

Al Hosani added the device is easy to carry so that individuals and families can carry it with them in cars and during foreign trips.

Separately, Abu Dhabi Emergency, Crisis and Disaster Committee for the COVID-19? Pandemic, in collaboration with Abu Dhabi Police and DoH, announced that the Abu Dhabi movement ban is to be extended by one week, starting from Tuesday 9th June.

The ban covers movements between Abu Dhabi’s regions (Abu Dhabi, Al Ain and Al Dhafra) as well as in and out of the emirate. It applies to all Abu Dhabi residents, including UAE nationals.

Exemptions are available by special permit for employees in vital sectors, chronic disease patients visiting hospitals, and the transportation of necessary goods. Movement within each region is allowed in line with National Sterilisation Programme hours.

This step aims to enhance the effectiveness of the expanded National Screening Programme, among a series of precautionary and preventative measures being taken to reduce contact, curb the spread of COVID-19, and protect the health and safety of all community members.