Bahrain Detects First Omicron Case

A member of the Bahraini security forces checks patient monitoring equipment at the Sitra field Intensive Care Unit (ICU) hospital for COVID-19 patients on Sitra island. (AFP)
A member of the Bahraini security forces checks patient monitoring equipment at the Sitra field Intensive Care Unit (ICU) hospital for COVID-19 patients on Sitra island. (AFP)
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Bahrain Detects First Omicron Case

A member of the Bahraini security forces checks patient monitoring equipment at the Sitra field Intensive Care Unit (ICU) hospital for COVID-19 patients on Sitra island. (AFP)
A member of the Bahraini security forces checks patient monitoring equipment at the Sitra field Intensive Care Unit (ICU) hospital for COVID-19 patients on Sitra island. (AFP)

Bahrain's Ministry of Health announced Saturday the first Omicron variant case in Bahrain, state news agency BNA reported.

The person infected with omicron was traveling from abroad, the ministry said without mentioning which country they traveled from.

The ministry affirmed that it found no contact cases after carrying out a follow-up process, stressing that all necessary precautions have been taken, including the isolation of the infected individual.

In its statement, the ministry stressed the importance of adhering to all precautionary health measures issued by the National Medical Taskforce for Combating the Coronavirus (COVID-19) and everyone to get vaccinated and receive a booster shot.



Namirah Mosque Ready for Hajj’s Arafat Day with Major Upgrades

Significant development projects have been implemented to improve the comfort of pilgrims at the mosque. (SPA)
Significant development projects have been implemented to improve the comfort of pilgrims at the mosque. (SPA)
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Namirah Mosque Ready for Hajj’s Arafat Day with Major Upgrades

Significant development projects have been implemented to improve the comfort of pilgrims at the mosque. (SPA)
Significant development projects have been implemented to improve the comfort of pilgrims at the mosque. (SPA)

The Saudi Ministry of Islamic Affairs, Dawah and Guidance has completed extensive preparations at Namirah Mosque in Arafat, ensuring it is fully ready to welcome Hajj pilgrims on the day of Arafat, which falls on Thursday. The mosque has been furnished with 125,000 square meters of luxurious carpets.

Significant development projects have been implemented to improve the comfort of pilgrims. The backyard now features 19 canopies that reduce heat stress by an average of 10 degrees Celsius, complemented by sun-reflecting floor paint. The surrounding courtyards are also prepared and cooled with 117 fog fans, lowering temperatures by an average of 9 degrees Celsius.

A major ventilation and air conditioning upgrade includes a new control system that monitors carbon dioxide levels and operates air purification units, allowing for 100% air renewal every 30 minutes. This system also controls water pumps, boosting operational efficiency and providing a healthier environment for pilgrims.

For hydration, 70 water chillers have been installed, each capable of serving 2,000 pilgrims per hour, totaling a capacity of 140,000 pilgrims per hour.

An advanced audio system and security surveillance cameras have also been integrated to boost safety and security.

Furthermore, the mosque's 72 gates and entrances have been strategically organized to ensure a smooth flow of pilgrims.

These extensive tasks were carried out by dedicated supervisory and service teams committed to providing the best services to pilgrims.