AN automated chat service dedicated to providing information on Covid-19 has been introduced in Bahrain, the GDN reported today.
The Health Ministry launched the service yesterday in collaboration with Facebook and WhatsApp.
The service, which is in Arabic and English, delivers up-to-date information on the spread of the coronavirus disease and Bahrain’s response to the pandemic.
The chat service has been built on the WhatsApp Business API and uses Infobip’s global communication platform to provide timely and critical information regarding the virus.
A range of information is provided by the chatbot, including latest news, a summary of cases, volunteer opportunities, and ways to donate to the ‘Feena Khair’ campaign.
The chatbot can also direct users to online resources for more advanced queries.
It also provides a direct link to download the ‘Be Aware’ application, shares further information from YouTube and other communication channels, and redirects users to access online Covid-19 test results.
Health Ministry Under-Secretary Dr Waleed Al Manea said this will further enhance national efforts to raise awareness and contribute to overall preventative efforts to mitigate the spread of the virus.
“We are working to reach a bigger and wider community in our health efforts to combat the spread of Covid-19,” he said during a Press briefing yesterday.
This follows directives led by His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Crown Prince, Deputy Supreme Commander and First Deputy Prime Minister.
The chat services are free to use and available around the clock. Users interested in the service will have to send ‘Hi’ to +973 32002001 over Whatsapp.
