Coronavirus: "no plans to suspend flights from affected countries right now” (minister)

(TAP) - Tunisia does not plan to suspend flights to and from countries affected by the coronavirus outbreak right now, new Transport Minister Anouar Maarouf said at a visit to Tunis-Carthage airport on Saturday afternoon.

Maarouf, who was accompanied by new Health Minister Abdellatif Mekki stressed that Tunisia has taken all necessary preventive measures in the various airports and the 28 land and sea border crossings.

“The strategy to combat coronavirus is in its early stages. It is meticulously implemented," he pointed out.

However, the minister did not rule out the possibility of suspending flights to some destinations depending on the situation which, he said, is still “under control.”

“Citizens are called upon to avoid panic and to respect necessary hygiene measures to prevent and reduce the risk of contagion,” recommended Health Minister Abdellatif Mekki.

"No case of "Covid-19" has been recorded in Tunisia"

No case of infection with coronavirus has been recorded in Tunisia to date, reassured the Health Minister.

"The prevention plan put in place by the health authorities, in co-operation with the various ministries concerned has so far shown its effectiveness,” he stressed.

Mekki recalled the mobilisation of an exceptional line of funding to strengthen preventive measures and medical teams to control passengers at various border crossings.

"We understand the concern of Tunisians, but invite them not to panic,” he said, adding Tunisia is ready to face all eventualities and to effectively intervene to prevent the spread of this virus in case of confirmed infection.

The two ministers visited Tunis-Carthage airport to check the surveillance systems put in place, including the installation of temperature sensors and measures to deal with suspected cases.