PEOPLE opting to stay in hotels during their assigned quarantine period for the Coronavirus Disease (Covid-19) will not be allowed to leave the facility in the first 14 days nor will they be allowed to receive visitors, according to the Health Ministry, writes the GDN's Raji Unnikrishnan.

A patient can leave the place once a nasopharyngeal swab taken on day 13 turns out negative.

However, people are free to extend their stay in quarantine if they wish to do so for further safety.

But if a patient tests positive, he or she will be transferred to an isolation facility.

People in the isolation facilities can also seek confidential psychological support by calling 66399789.

These are part of the ministry’s guideline for guests in quarantine at hotels published yesterday.

The GDN reported last week that people entering the country via Bahrain International Airport (BIA) have the option of choosing between free government quarantine facilities and paid hotel rooms. This was part of the government’s contingency plans to ensure home isolation regulations are being strictly followed.

As per the guidelines, use of the hotel gym is prohibited while a gathering of more than five people is banned.

People are also urged to refrain from smoking, as it could delay the recovery and may lead to serious complications.

“You are not allowed to leave the hotel during the first 14 days of your stay,” said the guidelines which also included social distancing tips and a reiteration of hygiene instructions for self and surroundings.

“Laundry should be kept in the designated bag, in front of the room door from the outside to be collected.

“Wear a protective face mask when you are around other people and when you are examined by medical staff.

“Visits by friends or relatives while in quarantine are not permitted.

“If items are to be sent to you, they may be received at the reception.

“If you experience a fever, cough, or shortness of breath, remain in your room and inform the reception.

“If you have any pre-existing conditions which require medication and follow-up, inform the reception to help you obtain your medication.

“The quarantine period may be mentally challenging for you, causing some fear and anxiety being away from family and friends.

“Do not hesitate to ask for confidential psychological support by calling 66399789,” added the guidelines.

Meanwhile, residents in Juffair have raised concerns about the spread of the virus.

The GDN reported last week that Middle East Hospital (MEH) has two quarantine facilities – at Best Western Olive and Taj Plaza in Juffair, with 260 beds in total, which are already operational.

The MEH is also providing services at the Park Regis Lotus Hotel, Juffair, which is the only private isolation treatment centre for Covid-19, with 172 beds.

“We are not sure of how the virus spreads, but it is definitely a matter of concern that we have treatment facilities in a residential area,” a resident told the GDN.

“Are these facilities not supposed to be far from malls and apartments?” asked the expatriate.

Park Regis Hotel is adjacent to a prominent residential complex, while the other two hotels are close to Juffair Mall and a number of residential buildings.

“While the government directives are being followed, there are still people going for walks in the area,” said another resident.

“The Juffair Mall is also frequented by a number of people.

“What about the staff at these hotels? Are they allowed to leave the premises? Will they not visit the nearby shops, or the mall?

“We hope the government has assessed these aspects.”

Three other private hospitals were also tied up with at least six hotels across Bahrain to offer Covid-19 services.

The American Mission Hospital will support the quarantine facility at the Elite Resort and Spa, while Royal Bahrain Hospital will monitor The Grove Hotel in Amwaj Islands, and the Bahrain Specialist Hospital will oversee the Novotel Al Dana Resort with 160 beds.