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JEDDAH: The Ministry of Health is studying the possibility of enacting tougher norms to protect patients from contracting infections at health facilities, especially the MERS coronavirus, an official was quoted as saying by local media on Sunday.

The Undersecretary for public health and president of the Leadership and Control Center, Dr. Abdulaziz bin Saeed, has revealed that the Ministry of Health has said the penalties would include individuals and health facilities, depending on the type, nature and size of the violation.
“The ministry will not be lenient. The punishment could include closure and financial penalties against hospitals that jeopardize people’s health. Hospitals are supposed to protect and treat patients, and not infect them with diseases because of negligence,” he said.
He said inspection campaigns would continue at all health sectors to monitor any violations that threaten the lives of patients. “These campaigns are related to sterilization and violation of ICU, emergency and operating rooms. Hospitals that abide by the rules and regulations will be commended and appreciated.”
The official said the current SR100,000 fine still stands and is related to delay in reporting infectious cases. “Violators could also face jail term up to six months or SR100,000 fine or both, besides revocation of the license or striking their names from the profession’s register.”
Some of these punishments have been implemented but no one has been jailed because of coronavirus, he said, adding that the aim is to ensure quality work at health facilities and curb the spread of coronavirus.