People might die of the Coronavirus in Malta, just like they did in Europe, but the health authorities are prepared for any situation, Deputy Prime Minister Chris Fearne said on Wednesday.
"Just as in Europe, Malta might also have deaths due to the virus, but we are more prepared than other countries in Europe. We began working on the situation earlier than others and we are prepared for any situation," Fearne said on TVM.
Fearne said many Maltese and Gozitans are scared of going to hospital and the emergency department as they are scared they will encounter patients with COVID-19.
"We have seen individuals who are suffering from intense pain or a disease, and are waiting until it is too late to go to hospital," he said.
He announced that there are now two emergency departments, one on the East side and another on the West side (facing University). He explained that one side is for patients who have COVID-19 symptoms and the other side for those with no symptoms whatsoever.
Fearne said that, during this time, Malta needs all its resources and all people on deck. During this period, operations which are not crucial are being postponed, so that all doctors, equipment and recourses can be used for COVID-19 patients.
"We are constantly trying to be one step ahead of the virus. This is not the first pandemic we have ever faced and we are working on it," said Fearne.
He said that Malta is taking the necessary preventive steps to ensure that it will not suffer as much as other countries. "We must learn from what is happening in other countries. We are also blessed to have one of the best health systems in Europe and that we are working as quickly in our hospital and we will have a team which is testing the virus," said Fearne.
Fearne said that he is ensuring that all doctors, nurses and medical staff are on deck and working, both local and foreign workers. "We have student doctors who will be graduating at the end of this year who are working with us now. There are foreign nationals who are waiting for their warrant and we ensured that the process is quickened so that they are provided the warrant so that they can work."
Fearne said that older medical personnel are more at risk and the authorities are avoiding giveng them Covid-19 duties. "While their enthusiasm is appreciated, we do not want any tragedies."
Fearne pointed out that, so far, all those that have been tested positive for COVID-19 are all residents in Malta. "Yes, there have been people who went abroad and came back to Malta and carried the virus. Yes, there are those who made mistakes and been affected, but I am more annoyed at those individuals who post pictures on social media of them going out. I know this is a difficult time, but we must protect one another."
When asked about whether individuals should stop taking medication for high blood pressure, Fearne said that they should not. "There is no need to stop your medication for blood pressure; there have been articles going around stating this, but please do not stop any medication."
Fearne said that, whilst it might look good on paper, a lockdown will not make any difference.
"The measures we took as a government are all based on scientific evidence, and looking into what happened abroad and how these measures can be modified." He said that he feels confident that Malta is prepared for any situation. "We must work together, follow the directives, and those who are unwell should stay at home.
People should keep a distance from others. "If everyone does their part, we can control the situation, and we can come out stronger."
Fearne also appealed to the public to follow these measures even on Thursday, a public holiday.
"I am aware that tomorrow is a public holiday, which due to this virus is already ruined. Please, do not go out for picnics or stay in large groups. We must be careful, as just one day can ruin everything."