Bahrain COVID-19 employer resources
The measures to tackle COVID-19 in the Middle East have succeeded in flattening the curve and limiting the spread of the virus. The number of new daily cases and hospital admissions is continuing to decline each week. The Middle East in general has been proactive and extensive in testing which has enabled the respective governments to identify high numbers of positive cases in any given community.
Other reasons the virus has been well contained include:
- The Middle East has a young population and high quality of care provided through the public healthcare sector for COVID-19 patients.
- There is proactive testing to identify cases early.
- Hospitals have expanded capacity, especially intensive care, to ensure all patients receive the medical care they need.
COVID-19 vaccine considerations for Bahrain
- Can employers mandate the vaccine?
No - Who will control delivery of the vaccine?
Public health service - Who covers the cost of the vaccine?
Government. Only for citizens and residents. - Where will people get vaccinated?
Government designated vaccination locations, including malls - Is there cultural resistance to getting the vaccine?
Yes
The following changes have been made in all workplaces:
- When entering any public building there is a thermal screening of employees and visitors (entry prohibited for those with a body temperature of 38 degrees celsius or higher).
- Since April 2020 everyone in the Middle East must wear a protective mask outside of their homes.
- Eighty percent of the staff is allowed in the workplace, and remote working has become normal practice for internal and external stakeholders.
- Employers are having their workforce work in split teams, alternating shifts, or alternating days to comply with capacity and physical distancing guidance.
- Employers also allow flexible working hours for vulnerable employees or those who are concerned about being present in office locations for health reasons.
It is also important for employers to note that:
- Group medical includes COVID-19 coverage.
- International disability insurers cover COVID-19. Local Insurers exclude it.
- Local markets are adjusting to COVID-19 with new insurance products.
- Vaccinations are happening all across the Middle East in an orderly manner, most of the population will be vaccinated by the 3 Quarter of 2021.
More Information
If you want to know the latest Covid – 19 decisions in Bahrain, go to the official website from the Ministry of Health.
This information is provided by Nexus Insurance Brokers LLC, Asinta's partner in Bahrain.
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Page last modified: April 20, 2021
The information presented on this site is current as of the date initially posted; and, because matters related to COVID-19, the vaccine, and compliance measures are changing so quickly, it may not be current as of the date you read it. While the information gathered here is from Asinta global partners who are subject matter experts in their respective fields, this information is not meant to be a substitute for individual legal or medical advice, or as a substitute for advice in your specific situation.