
Testing and tracing
How governments are identifying and tracing COVID-19 cases
Argentina
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Conducted randomised testing of people on public transport(...)Announced24/04/2020Policy details
The Argentine Government carried out a research project. It consists of randomly using quick testing kits on people travelling on public means of transportation, who declare not to have had any symptoms for the previous 21 days. The Ministry of Health stated the intention of this research is not to diagnose anyone, but to gather other type of insights. For this reason, the testings will be anonymous.
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Established COVID-19 as a 'mandatory notification' disease for health and lab workers(...)Announced30/03/2020Policy details
The Argentine Government added COVID-19 to the list of diseases that health and lab workers must report to authorities. Detailed information must be provided, such as the suspected date of infection and the evolution of the disease.
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Established COVID-19 testing centres(...)Announced20/03/2020Policy details
The Argentine Government decentralised testing of COVID-19. Previously, only one official testing centre was running in Buenos Aires, carrying out approximately 200 tests per day.
Testing kits have been distributed to 106 newly-established COVID-19 testing centres across the country.
Australia
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Launched a tracking and tracking app(...)Announced01/05/2020Policy details
The Australian Government launched the COVIDSafe app. The app is voluntary, and is used by state and territory health officials to find close contacts of people infected with COVID-19. The infected person must have the app and agree that their information can be used to contact their contacts.
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Expanded testing criteria to include all people with mild symptoms of COVID-19(...)Announced24/04/2020Policy details
The National Cabinet agreed to expand testing criteria to include all people with mild symptoms of COVID-19. It is expected that this measure will ensure cases are more quickly identified.
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Expanded national minimum testing criteria(...)Announced26/03/2020Policy details
The Australian Government expanded the national minimum testing criteria for COVID-19.
The revised testing criteria includes testing people with fever or acute respiratory infection in all health workers; all aged/residential care workers; hospitalised patients with symptoms of unknown cause; geographically localised areas where there was elevated risk of community transmission as defined by the local public health unit; and where no community transmission was occurring, or high risk settings where there are two or more plausibly-linked cases—for example, in detention centres, correctional facilities, rural and remote Aboriginal communities.
States and territories continue to have the discretion to expand their own criteria for testing if capacity permits.
Austria
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Increased testing of people living in retirement homes(...)Announced11/04/2020Policy details
No further details are recorded for this policy. Refer to the citations below for more information.
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Introduced testing policy allowing for testing at discretion of clinician(...)Announced22/03/2020Policy details
Under Austria's testing policy, testing will be undertaken of patients with symptoms and exposure to an at-risk region or a confirmed case will be tested, or health personell. Any primary care physician can also order a test if suspecting a case irrespective of the conditions.
Canada
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Established a COVID-19 Immunity Task Force(...)Announced23/04/2020Policy details
The Canadian government established a COVID-19 Immunity Task Force.
The task force is aimed at establishing priorities and overseeing the coordination of a series of country-wide blood test surveys intended to indicate how widely the virus has spread in Canada and provide reliable estimates of potential immunity and vulnerabilities in Canadian populations.
The task force will operate under the direction of a leadership group that includes Dr. David Naylor, Dr. Catherine Hankins, Dr. Tim Evans, Dr. Theresa Tam, and Dr. Mona Nemer.
This measure is part of the government's CA$1.1 billion package of research funding announced on 23 April 2020.
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Expedited access to medical devices, including test kits(...)Announced18/03/2020Policy details
The Canadian Government approved an interim order to expedite review of medical devices, including test kits. The measure is intended to speed up the importation and sale of medical devices used to diagnose, treat or prevent COVID-19.
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Provided funding to provinces and territories for critical healthcare support(...)Announced11/03/2020Policy details
The Canadian Government issued CA$500 million for provinces and territories for critical health care system needs and to support the mitigation efforts as needed.
This funding is intended to support provinces and territories to access testing, acquire equipment, and enhance surveillance and monitoring.
China
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Introduced health QR code to advise people whether they need to self-quarantine(...)Announced11/02/2020Policy details
The Chinese Government required people to use a Health QR code that indicates whether they are at risk of contracting COVID-19 and need to self-quarantine.
This measure began in Zhejiang Province, and has been expanded to the rest of the country.
Denmark
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Expanded testing criteria for COVID-19(...)Announced22/03/2020Policy details
The Danish government expanded testing criteria for COVID-19 tests.
The expanded testing criteria includes anyone with moderate to severe COVID-19 suspicion following clinical evaluation; women who have been visited at a maternity ward and who are suspected of COVID-19; newborn babies exhibiting symptoms, and persons with mild to moderate symptoms who perform critical functions in the health care sector, or work with the elderly or other socially disadvantaged groups. Expanded criteria were chosen on the basis of WHO recommendations.
Previously, the National Board of Health encouraged people not to call the doctor with symptoms of COVID-19 that were not serious.
Germany
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Increased contact tracing capacity(...)Announced15/04/2020Policy details
The German Government introduced various measures to trace all chains of infection and interrupt them as quickly as possible.
The government has funded additional human resources in local public health services to reach at least one team of 5 people per 20,000 inhabitants. In particularly affected areas, additional teams from the federal states are to be deployed and the army will support such regions with trained personnel
The Federal Office of Administration will provide online training to staff optimise the reporting of case numbers and to improve the cooperation of the health services with the RKI (the government’s central scientific institution in the field of biomedicine) in contact tracing.
The government has also established a funding programme for technical equipment as well as upgrading and training of local health services by the Federal Ministry of Health.
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Announced support for and intention to use contact tracing-apps(...)Announced15/04/2020Policy details
The German Government announced their support for the architectural concept of "Pan-European Privacy-Preserving Proximity Tracing" because it follows a pan-European approach, provides for compliance with European and German data protection regulations, and stores only epidemiologically relevant contacts of the last three weeks anonymously on the user's mobile phone without recording the movement profile.
They asked everyone working on tracing-apps to use and build on this framework to ensure compatible solutions. They announced that both federal and state governments will ask citizens to use trancing-apps as soon as they are available, however, that this would contine to be on a voluntary basis.
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Started developing treatment evaluation database(...)Announced15/04/2020Policy details
The German Government, with the support of federal and state research institutions, is developing a SARS-CoV-2 database in which inpatient treatments are documented and evaluated. This is part of the WHO solidarity trial.
India
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Launched the Aarogya Setu app for contract tracing(...)Announced02/04/2020Policy details
The Government of India launched the Aarogya Setu (bridge to healthcare) mobile app.
The app alerts users if they have come in contact with a COVID-19 positive patient, and what measures they need to take.
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Set up an integrated disease surveillance portal to trace contacts(...)Announced15/03/2020Policy details
The Government of India set up an Integrated Disease Surveillance Portal to better trace possible virus carriers and the people they contacted.
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Opened testing, isolation and quarantine facilities in partnership with state governments(...)Announced04/03/2020Policy details
The Government of India opened testing, isolation and quarantine facilities in various parts of the country, down to the district level, in partnership with state governments.
Iran
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Introduced checks on drivers' temperature on certain roads(...)Announced17/03/2020Policy details
No further details are recorded for this policy. Refer to the citations below for more information.
Morocco
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Tested all members of government for COVID-19(...)Announced16/03/2020Policy details
No further details are recorded for this policy. Refer to the citations below for more information.
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Strengthened the national system of epidemiological watch and surveillance(...)Announced27/01/2020Policy details
No further details are recorded for this policy. Refer to the citations below for more information.
Nepal
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Mobilised healthcare workers across Nepal to improve testing process(...)Announced08/04/2020Policy details
The Ministry of Health and Population mobilised 11 health professionals across the country to improve the testing process.
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Provided free COVID-19 testing for some people(...)Announced02/04/2020Policy details
The Nepal Government is providing free testing to patients who health professions decide should be tested. This is particularly encouraged for people aged over 60 years old with signs and symptoms consistent with COVID-19.
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Opened testing centres in hospitals across Nepal(...)Announced29/03/2020Policy details
The Nepal Government will open COVID-19 testing centres in each of the seven regional hospitals extending all over the country. These centres will be in addition to the National Public Health Laboratory, Kathmandu, which has been testing since January 27, 2020.
Documentation for sample collection, COVID-19 reporting, and contact tracing have been provided to all healthcare institutions. Samples were initially being sent abroad for testing prior to reagents and equipment being acquired. -
Began limited testing for COVID-19(...)Announced27/01/2020Policy details
The National Public Health Laboratory, Kathmandu, began testing for COVID-19.
Netherlands
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Announced results of research into mink farms found to have COVID-19(...)Announced08/05/2020Policy details
The Dutch Government has announced the results of research into two mink farms found to have COVID-19 at the end of April. Research was conducted to gain more insight into the spread of the virus.
The first results show that no virus was found in the air samples outside the farm. However, the virus has been found on dust particles in the immediate vicinity of minks on the farm. It is still unknown whether people can become infected with COVID-19 through these dust particles.
The research will be repeated in the coming weeks. Employees of the infected farms are required to continue following health advice and use personal protection equipment onsite. The Government has also advised the public not to cycle or walk in a 400 meters radius around infected mink farms, although there is no evidence the virus can spread over longer distances.
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Purchased blood tests to detect COVID-19(...)Announced05/05/2020Policy details
The Dutch government has purchased one million blood tests that can show whether a person has been infected with COVID-19.
The aim is to conduct random tests of the Dutch population to gain insight into the spread of COVID-19 in the Netherlands, and the extent to which antibodies are being developed by people who have had the virus.
The tests will be carried out by blood donation organization Sanquin.
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Extended priority testing(...)Announced30/04/2020Policy details
The Dutch Government has announced priority testing for primary educators, childcare providers, youth trainers and informal caregivers.
From 6 May 2020, those working in primary schools, out-of-school care, childcare or youth care can be tested if they have symptoms of COVID-19 for at least 24 hours (e.g. cough, runny nose, cold, or fever).
Caregivers for vulnerable people can also be tested from 18 May 2020 if they have symptoms.
Previously priority testing was given to healthcare workers, police and enforcement staff, as well as people who have a higher risk of COVID-19. The
Netherlands currently conducts 6,000 to 7,000 tests per day, and has the capacity to undertake 17,500 tests per day. The Government is also preparing for further expansion of the testing policy.
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Imposed reporting obligations for mink farms with COVID-19(...)Announced26/04/2020Policy details
The Dutch Government has introduced measures requiring mink farmers, veterinarians and research institutions to report any respiratory problems and increased mortality in minks. This comes as two farms were found to have COVID-19 in different minks.
The Government has launched investigations to determine the source of the infections. Mandatory reporting has also been required to prevent possible spread of the virus to other farms.
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Established drive-through test facility in Bonaire(...)Announced12/04/2020Policy details
Authorities in the Caribbean island of Bonaire has initiated a 'drive-thru' test facility for COVID-19 from 14 to 17 April 2020. Testing for COVID-19 had previously only been conducted in homes.
The drive-thru test facility allows a greater number of people to be tested, and the least amount of exposure to medical staff. A maximum of two people per car are allowed to be tested via the drive-thru facility.
No positive cases were found among the 190 people tested via the drive-thru facility, increasing confidence in local authorities there is no community circulation of the virus on the island.
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Sought proposals for contact tracing apps(...)Announced11/04/2020Policy details
The Dutch Government has asked businesses and experts to help come up with ideas for the development and use of apps in tackling COVID-19. In particular, the Government sought digital solutions that would help people trace their whereabouts (e.g. if they have been around anyone infected with COVID-19), and make it easier to report on health issues and keep in touch with their doctor from home.
Around 750 responses were recieved and are currently being assessed. Proposals had to meet a series of specific requirements, including ensuring personal data were not stored centrally or traceable to individuals.
The Government will be announcing what the possible apps will look like in the week before 28 April 2020.
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Increased testing capacity for COVID-19(...)Announced31/03/2020Policy details
The Dutch Government announced they will be expanding the capacity to test for COVID-19 from 4,000 tests per day in late March to 17,500 in following weeks.
This greater capacity is linked to a broader test policy, which has increased the number of laboratories testing for COVID-19 from 14 to 41. This allows healthcare workers and their patients outside hospitals to be tested, including general practitioners, nursing homes, facilities caring for the disabled, home care, youth care, and mental healthcare services.
Previously, testing for COVID-19 could only be requested through municipal public health services (GGD). The new test policy will be laid out in a guideline by the National Institute for Public Health and Environment (RIVM) and come into effect on 6 April.
New Zealand
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Implemented recommendations for improving contact tracing(...)Announced09/05/2020Policy details
The New Zealand Government announced that five of the eight recommendations made in an audit of the contact tracing system have now been implemented, and others are under way.
The five changes, which are now completed or business as ususal operations, include expanding the capacity of the public health units, developing an Outbreak Preparedness Plan, ensuring close contacts in home quarantine were contacted every day to monitor adherence to isolation and to assess their symptoms, public health units being granted access to the National Contact Tracing Solution, and greater collaboration between the National Close Contact Service and Medical Officers of Health to define referral protocols and triage systems.
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Established oversight body for contact tracing(...)Announced30/04/2020Policy details
The New Zealand Government established a committee — the Contact Tracing Assurance Committee — to provide oversight of, and advise the government about, the country's COVID-19 contact tracing capability. The committee will advise on improvements to the system that the Ministry of Health is making following a recent audit.
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Increased funding for contact tracing(...)Announced20/04/2020Policy details
The New Zealand Government allocated NZ$55 million for contact tracing COVID-19 cases.
The funding will be used to expand the country's Public Health Units (PHUs) as required with additional surge capacity of up to 300 full time equivalent staff and provide the National Close Contact Service (NCCS) will also with extra resources to manage complex investigations, such as detailed analysis of clusters.
The funding will also be used to improve the National Contact Tracing Solution, an information technology platform, so that it can manage the delivery of a COVID-19 vaccine when one becomes available.
The NCCS, which was established in March, has capacity to make 5,000 calls per day and can be scaled up to 10,000 if required. PHUs can also collectively trace up to 185 cases per day.
The policy is the result of recommendations arising from an independent audit of contact tracing conducted by Ayesha Verrall of the University of Otago.
The Minister of Health has appointed an expert group (under Section 11 of the Public Health and Disability Act 200) to advise him on progress.
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Began targeted testing of asymptomatic people(...)Announced16/04/2020Policy details
The New Zealand Governerment began testing groups of asymptomatic people to ascertain possible spread of COVID-19 as part of a programme of sentinel testing to determine whether community transmission is occurring.
The new testing began with tests of 343 staff and customers at a Queenstown supermarket. As at 17 April, half of the tests had been processed and all processed results returned negative.
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Began work on contact tracing app(...)Announced09/04/2020Policy details
The New Zealand Government began work on a locally-developed app to assist with contact tracing. The app will have basic functionality and be expanded over time.
The New Zealand Government has enquired with the Singaproean Government about using its contact tracing app, TraceTogether, which can record interactions between a phone and other phones nearby that have the app installed. Contact data is stored on the phone and released to the government for contact tracing if the user tests positive. This allows automatic notification of close contacts of a confirmed case.
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Established a national centre for contact tracing(...)Announced24/03/2020Policy details
The New Zealand Government established a new contact tracing workforce, the National Close Contact Service (NCCS), based at the Ministry of Health in Wellington. As of 5 April 2020, there were 190 contact tracing staff.
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Provided free COVID-19 testing to patients who clinical staff decide should be tested(...)Announced20/03/2020Policy details
The New Zealand Government is providing free testing to patients who health professionals decide should be tested. The Ministry of Health advises health professionals that testing should be done for any person meeting the suspected case definition or if clinical judgement indicates that testing is warranted. The ministry suggests in cases of doubt, a person should be tested.
From 1 April 2020, the ministry advised that anyone with respiratory symptoms consistent with COVID-19 should be considered for testing, regardless of travel history or contact with a confirmed case. As at 1 April 2020, the government had capacity to conduct 3,700 tests per day.
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Established community assessment centres for COVID-19 testing(...)Announced12/03/2020Policy details
The New Zealand Government has established community based assessment centres where people with symptoms of COVID-19 can be tested safely. District Health Boards began planning for centres in mid-March.
As at 8 April 2020, there were 120 sites taking samples to be tested for COVID-19. 68 sites are dedicated community based assessment centres. The 52 other cites include designated general practices, swabbing centres, and mobile clinics.
Pakistan
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Received test kits from the WHO(...)Announced14/04/2020Policy details
The World Health Organization provided the Pakistan National Disaster Management Authority with 15 PCR machines and test kits.
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Distributed testing machines to provinces(...)Announced11/04/2020Policy details
The Pakistan Government procured and distributed 14 new Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) test machines among the provinces.
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Increased testing capacity(...)Announced08/04/2020Policy details
The Special Assistant to the Prime Minister on Health announced that the Pakistan Government would increase COVID-19 testing capacity from 6,584 to 25,000 tests a day by the end of April.
This increased capacity would made available by the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA), which is the lead agency coordinating the Pakistan Government’s COVID-19 response plan.
On 25 March, the NDMA received funding for testing equipment as part of a Rs7.89 billion package from the National Disaster Risk Management Fund.
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Established dedicated cell to monitor the spread of COVID-19(...)Announced30/03/2020Policy details
Prime Minister Imran Khan announced that a cell had been set up at the Prime Minister’s Office to assess the trend of the COVID-19 virus. The cell is intended to help the government devise its future response.
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Increased funding for medical equipment and infection tracing(...)Announced25/03/2020Policy details
The National Disaster Risk Management Fund (NDRMF) provided Rs7.89 billion to the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) for efforts to stop the spread of COVID-19.
The NDRMF is a not-for-profit company owned by the Pakistan Government, and the NDMA is the lead agency coordinating the Pakistan Government’s COVID-19 response plan.
Part of the funding will come from a loan made to the NDRMF by the Asian Development Bank.
The funding will go toward measures to respond and minimise the impact of the pandemic by strengthening surveillance, improving case management, taking infection prevention measures, among other things.
Equipment that will be funded includes testing kits, viral RNA extraction kits, mobile X-ray machines, clinical ICU ventilators, syringe pumps, N95 masks, Tyvek suits (protection suits for health care staff), thermal guns and scanners
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Funded new medical equipment, including testing kits and ventilators(...)Announced24/03/2020Policy details
The Pakistan Government announced that it will provide Rs25bn to the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) for medical and rescue equipment, such as testing kits and ventilators.
The NDMA is the lead agency coordinating the Pakistan Government’s COVID-19 response plan.
Separately, the Pakistan Government set aside Rs50 billion to provide financial support to medical staff, hire more staff, and for equipment, uniforms and protection. This funding is part of the RS1.25 trillion economic package announced by Prime Minister Imran Khan aimed at absorbing the adverse impacts of the pandemic.
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Established cell phone tracking system to alert people at COVID-19 risk(...)Announced24/03/2020Policy details
The Pakistan Government established a cell phone tracking system led by the government’s Digital Pakistan programme.
The system identifies locations visited by a known COVID-19 patient over the last 14 days. When the owner of a phone tests positive for COVID-19, authorities use a record of their recent movements to notify owners of any other phones that recently came close to that phone of their risk of infection and advises them to self-isolate.
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Deployed the army to assist with containment measures(...)Announced23/03/2020Policy details
The Pakistan Army deployed troops across the country to assist civilian authorities in containing the spread of Covid-19 at the request of the interior ministry. Troops have been deployed in all four provinces, and in Islamabad, Gilgit-Baltistan, Azad Jammu and Kashmir.
The troops will assist federal and provincial governments in enforcing containment measures, and will help with contact tracking, identification and isolation of suspected cases, and the management of 182 quarantine facilities that have been set up across the country.
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Set up testing facilities at military medical facilities(...)Announced18/03/2020Policy details
The Pakistan Army has set up COVID-19 testing labs at military hospitals and a central testing facility at the Armed Forces’ Institute of Pathology in Rawalpindi. A help desk has also been set up at each military hospital for fast-track handling of the cases.
Peru
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Provided funding for COVID-19 tests(...)Announced20/03/2020Policy details
The Ministry of Economy and Finance of Peru allocated approximately S 100 million allocation for COVID-19 tests.
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Provided funding for testing systems(...)Announced20/03/2020Policy details
The Ministry of Economy and Finance of Peru allocated approximately S 2.5 million allocation for the "National Institute of Health, to finance the systematization and technological support linked to the diagnosis of COVID - 19."
Russia
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Screened travellers at checkpoiints(...)Announced21/04/2020Policy details
At all checkpoints across the state border of the Russian Federation, Rospotrebnadzor conducts enhanced double control of people arriving from disadvantaged regions using stationary and portable thermal imaging equipment.
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Developed quick coronavirus test(...)Announced06/04/2020Policy details
Russia's health watchdog Rosdravnadzor developed an "express" coronavirus test that can test at 94% accuracy within 40 minutes.
Saudi Arabia
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Contracted with China to increase testing capacity(...)Announced26/04/2020Policy details
The Saudi Arabian government signed a SR 995 million contract with China to provide specialists and design a mobile laboratory for COVID-19 testing.
The new laboratory should be able to process 10,000 tests per day. The government also purchased tests from other countries with an aim to bring up the total number of tests to 14.5 million tests.
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Introduced health screening units at land ports(...)Announced03/04/2020Policy details
The Ministry of Health has introduced health screening units at all its land ports.
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Introduced health screening and disinfection measures at all airports(...)Announced03/03/2020Policy details
The Ministry of Health in collaboration with the General Authority for Civil Aviation introduced strict preventative measures across the Kingdom’s airports.
The measures include health screening for passengers, disinfection of aircrafts and airport facilities.
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Tested travelers returning from China for COVID-19(...)Announced06/02/2020Policy details
The Ministry of Health tested travelers returning from China through direct and indirect flights.
Singapore
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Introduced testing for international arrivals with COVID-19 symptoms(...)Announced13/03/2020Policy details
From 13 Mar 2020, travellers entering Singapore and exhibiting fever or respiratory symptoms are required to undergo a COVID-19 swab test on arrival, regardless of travel history. All travellers are required to self-isolate for 14 days at a designated facility even if the result of the test is negative.
South Africa
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Further increased testing and screening(...)Announced09/04/2020Policy details
The Government of South Africa announced that it would conduct intensified community testing and screening across the country focusing on highly vulnerable communities.
This measure was announced as part of a package of intensified public health measures along with an extension to the national lockdown.
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Established dedicated centre to track screening, testing and hospitalisations(...)Announced09/04/2020Policy details
The Government of South Africa established a COVID-19 information centre at the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research to track all screening, testing, isolation and hospitalisation throughout the country.
This measure was announced as part of a package of intensified public health measures along with an extension to the national lockdown.
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Established mobile-phone based tracing system(...)Announced09/04/2020Policy details
The Government of South Africa announced that it would use mobile phones to locate those who have tested positive and contacts.
This measure was announced as part of a package of intensified public health measures along with an extension to the national lockdown.
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Appointed judge to monitor database of COVID-19 patients(...)Announced03/04/2020Policy details
The Government of South Africa Appointed a COVID-19 designate Judge under the terms of the Disaster Management Act.
The Designate judge is to be updated with weekly reports by the Director General of Health setting out the names and details of all persons whose locations and movements are being included in the national database of those suspected to have a COVID contact.
The Judge may make recommendations to cabinet as she sees fit in order to safeguard the right to privacy of these persons while ensuring the ability of the Department of Health to test and trace contacts.
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Established mobile testing and sampling units(...)Announced01/04/2020Policy details
The Government of South Africa introduced 60 new mobile sampling and testing units, to be deployed nationwide to all districts and metropolitan areas.
This measure is predicted to increase testing capacity from 5,000 tests daily to as many as 30,000 daily.
The mobile testing units are in addition to 180 testing sites and 320 testing units across the country.
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Expanded testing and screening(...)Announced23/03/2020Policy details
The Government of South Africa expanded testing to focus on high density and high-risk areas. This measure was intended to complement the lockdown measure.
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Introduced random testing on public transport(...)Announced16/03/2020Policy details
The Government of South Africa introduced random testing of commuters on public transport, with a focus on commuter rail.
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Directed that contact tracing occur within 48 hours of travel(...)Announced15/03/2020Policy details
The Government of South Africa directed that in order to decrease the risk of further spread of COVID-19, contact tracing must be completed within 48 hours.
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Conducted retrospective testing of travellers who had arrived in South Africa from certain countries from mid-February(...)Announced15/03/2020Policy details
The Government of South Africa required that all travellers arriving into South Africa from high risk countries from mid-February to present themselves for testing.
All travelers from medium risk countries (for example Portugal, Hong Kong, and Singapore) are required to undergo high intensity screening.
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Established a tracking, tracing, and monitoring system in partnership with the private sector(...)Announced15/03/2020Policy details
The Government of South Africa partnered with the private sector to set up a national tracking, tracing and monitoring system of all people infected with the coronavirus and those they have been in contact with.
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Intensified screening at all ports of entry into South Africa(...)Announced09/03/2020Policy details
The Government of South Africa declared all ports of entry high risk areas for the spread of COVID-19.
All arriving passengers are required to complete a questionnaire and have a first round of screening, including temperature screening with thermal scanners. Any passenger with a history of contact with a confirmed COVID-19 case, or displaying a temperature, are taken to a health facility in the port of entry for further testing.
All disembarking passengers receive a second round of temperature screening.
Staff are provided with personal protection equipment required to complete their work.
South Korea
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Set up network of community testing centres(...)Announced04/03/2020Policy details
The Korean government set up a large network of testing centres, including “drive-thru” and “phone booth”-style centres, with the aim of testing as many people as possible.
The drive-thru test system involves driving to a designated mobile screening booth and receiving a fever check and COVID-19 swab by medical staff in personal protective equipment. Each mobile screening booth can receive up to six cases per hour, for a total of 60 per day, compared to 20 per day at a regular screening center.
On 4 March, the Central Disaster Safety Response Headquarters announced it would distribute standard operating guidelines for the “drive-thru” testing centers to local governments across the country, after beginning a pilot program.
According to the operating guidelines, the “drive-thru” center tests are to be conducted in four stages: 1) reception; 2) fever testing; 3) sample collection; and 4) disinfection and education. Guidelines note that reservations for tests are necessary to reduce waiting time.
As of March 4, almost 20,000 people were being tested per day.
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Announced testing of Shincheonji sect members(...)Announced25/02/2020Policy details
The Korean government announced it would conduct COVID-19 tests on all members of the Shincheonji sect.
At the time of announcing the policy, 60 percent of all COVID-19 cases in South Korea were linked to a Shincheonji church in Daegu.
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Launched a website showing movements of people with confirmed cases(...)Announced23/02/2020Policy details
The Korean government launched a website that aims to make public the movements of people who have tested positive for COVID-19, using cellphone, credit card, and other records provided by the patient.
The age and gender of cases are made public along with movement data for the preceding week, but names are not publicized. The website also shows the number of confirmed contacts each confirmed case has had with others, and whether a patient has recovered and been removed from quarantine.
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Expanded scope of testing for COVID-19(...)Announced19/02/2020Policy details
The Korea Centers for Disease Control announced that suspected cases, regardless of travel history, will be able to receive a COVID-19 test based on the medical staff’s decision.
Those hospitalized with pneumonia of unknown cause will receive COVID-19 testing in a negative-pressure room.
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Expanded scope of testing for COVID-19(...)Announced06/02/2020Policy details
The Korea Centers for Disease Control and Prevention announced that anyone who visited any part of China and showed symptoms such as increased temperature or respiratory issues could be termed a “suspected case” and be subject to a medical check.
Under the revision, people diagnosed with pneumonia of unknown cause can also be tested for COVID-19.
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Covered the cost of COVID-19 testing and treatment(...)Announced29/01/2020Policy details
The Ministry of Health and Welfare announced it would pay for all expenses related to testing of suspected cases and treatment of those infected with COVID-19 in South Korea.
Spain
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Allowed regional authorities to use private labs for testing(...)Announced13/04/2020Policy details
The Government of Spain permitted regional authorities to use private laboratories located in their regions for testing.
Accessing COVID-19 tests will require a physician’s prescription and labs are obliged to notify all new cases to the corresponding health authority.
As per the potential implications on pricing abuse and shortage of testing material, the order entitles regional authorities to regulate prices at regional level and it requires private labs to inform the Authorities as to their purchase and provisioning of testing material.
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Imported rapid Covid-19 detection tests(...)Announced05/04/2020Policy details
The Government of Spain imported around one million rapid COVID-19 detection tests to complement PCR tests in COVIC-19 high prevalence environments, such as hospitals, nursing homes and assisted-living homes.
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Launched app for assessing citizens health status(...)Announced27/03/2020Policy details
The Ministry of Health ordered the Secretary of Digitalization and Artificial Intelligence to develop an app to support the management of the COVID-19 crisis.
Using this app, citizens are able to self-assess their health status and how likely it is for them to suffer from a COVID-19 infection, as well as receive advice and recommendations about how to proceed depending on the results of this assessment.
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Established contact tracing procedures(...)Announced23/02/2020Policy details
The Government of Spain implemented testing mechanisms after the detection of the first imported cases on 31 January in La Gomera.
The contact tracing protocol classifies as “close contacts” or as possible, probable or confirmed cases any person who has provided care while the case presented active symptoms, spouses, or family members and persons who stayed at the same place, at a distance of less than two meters and for a period of at least 15 minutes, while the patient presented active symptoms.
Contacts are instructed to quarantine at home for 14 days.
Sweden
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Expanded testing capacity(...)Announced31/03/2020Policy details
The Swedish Government tasked the Public Health Agency of Sweden to rapidly increase their testing capacity for Covid-19.
Taiwan
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Required 7 days of self-health monitoring after quarantines and isolations(...)Announced04/04/2020Policy details
The Central Epidemic Command Center asked those who finish their home quarantine or home isolation to self-monitor for symptoms for seven days, during which they are advised to stay home as much as possible, avoid crowded areas and wear a mask outside the house at all times.
The measure was adopted in response to an increasing number of people testing positive for COVID-19 after 14 days in isolation.
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Required all inbound passengers with fever or respiratory symptoms to be taken directly to quarantine(...)Announced02/04/2020Policy details
The Central Epidemic Command Center is sending all international arrivals suffering from respiratory symptoms or a fever directly to special quarantine facilities after testing them for COVID-19 at the airport.
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Required temperature checks for all rail passengers(...)Announced26/03/2020Policy details
The Taiwan Railways Administration announced that it would begin temperature checks for passengers at all 34 of its major stations in April.
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Introduced retrospective health monitoring for people entering Taiwan from East Asia and the United States(...)Announced21/03/2020Policy details
The Central Epidemic Command Center announced that travelers who arrived in Taiwan from the United States and East Asia between March 8 and March 18 and developed symptoms in that period to undergo home quarantine, and be tested for COVID-19 for retrospective investigation.
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Introduced retrospective health monitoring for people entering Taiwan from Europe and some Middle Eastern countries(...)Announced18/03/2020Policy details
The Central Epidemic Command Center will conduct retrospective health monitoring on individuals entering Taiwan from Europe, Egypt, Turkey and Dubai, including those who have transited through those countries. Members of the public arriving in Taiwan from these areas are required to follow home quarantine measures, and to report their travel history to local authorities so that local civil affair personnel can implement home quarantine procedures.
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Refused entry into metro stations for people with high temperatures(...)Announced29/02/2020Policy details
Taipei Mass Rapid Transit announced it would not allow passengers with a fever of 38 degrees Celsius or higher to board a train. An infrared system will be installed at some stations to measure passengers' temperatures.
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Required travelers arriving from certain countries to avoid public places and monitor their temperature for 14 days(...)Announced24/02/2020Policy details
The Central Epidemic Command Centre requires travelers arriving in Taiwan from Level 1 (Thailand, Italy, Iran) and Level 2 (Singapore and Japan) countries to conduct a self-health management for 14 days. This involves recording temperature twice daily and avoiding public places. Travelers will be provided with instructions for how to seek medical attention if any symptoms develop and about physical distancing.
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Used smart technologies to track people under home quarantine(...)Announced24/02/2020Policy details
The Central Epidemic Command Center is utilising smart technologies to track people under home quarantine to ensure measures are followed. Those who violate home quarantine requirements will be fined up to NT$150,000. From 20 March, all travelers arriving in Taiwan are required to home quarantine for 14 days.
Thailand
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Funded free laboratory screening and protective equipment for frontline medical staff(...)Announced08/04/2020Policy details
The Thai Government extended funding to the National Health Security Office to support costs of prevention and treatment, including for free laboratory testing for Thai citizens who meet surveillance criteria, as well as protective equipment for ambulance and healthcare workers.
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Required all suspected cases to report to disease control officers within three hours(...)Announced01/03/2020Policy details
The Ministry of Health invoked the Communicable Disease Act, requiring that all suspected cases of people who meet the criteria for COVID-19 are to report to disease control officers within three hours.
Any person who violates or fails to comply with the order shall be liable to a fine not exceeding B20,000.
Turkey
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Established health screenings in airports and border crossings(...)Announced24/01/2020Policy details
No further details are recorded for this policy. Refer to the citations below for more information.
United Kingdom
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Further expanded eligibility for testing(...)Announced28/04/2020Policy details
The UK Government expanded the eligibility for coronavirus testing to include everyone in England aged 65 and over with coronavirus symptoms, along with symptomatic members of their household.
Symptomatic workers who are unable to work from home also eligible for testing.
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Expanded eligibility for testing(...)Announced17/04/2020Policy details
The UK Government expanded access to more frontline workers and symptomatic members of their households.
Police, fire service, frontline benefits workers and those working with vulnerable children and adults are now able to access testing.
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Expanded testing for social care workers and care home residents(...)Announced15/04/2020Policy details
The UK Government expanded its offer of COVID-19 testing to include all symptomatic care residents. It also confirmed that all patients discharged from hospital would be tested before going into a care home.
The Government also confirmed that all social care staff who have COVID-19 symptoms will have access to a test.
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Launched online survey for people with potential coronavirus symptoms(...)Announced04/04/2020Policy details
The UK Government created an online survey for people at home who thinks they may be displaying coronavirus symptoms.
The information gathered will assist the NHS to plan its response to the outbreak and provide insight into the development and progression of the virus across the country.
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Created plan to increase testing(...)Announced02/04/2020Policy details
The UK Government created a plan to increase testing to 100,000 a day across the UK. The government aims to increase testing at PHE labs and NHS hospitals for those with a medical need and the most critical workers to 25,000 a day in England by mid to late April and provide more commercial swab testing for NHS workers before then expanding to key workers in other sectors. The government plans to develop antibody blood testing and begin a National Effort for testing to build mass-testing capacity.
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Increased COVID-19 testing for health professionals(...)Announced27/03/2020Policy details
The UK Government began a COVID-19 testing programme for frontline NHS staff, involving borrowing testing equipment from universities, research institutes and businesses to establish new testing laboratories.
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Increased testing capacity(...)Announced18/03/2020Policy details
The UK Government increased the number of people tested for COVID-19 to 25,000 a day.
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Revised authorities’ powers to direct people to undergo testing and isolate(...)Announced17/03/2020Policy details
The UK government expanded powers to direct people to undergo screening and, if necessary, isolate from others. The powers can now be exercised by immigration officers, in addition to medical professionals, public health professionals and the police.
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Established new COVID-19 surveillance system(...)Announced26/02/2020Policy details
The UK Government established a new surveillance system to detect cases of COVID-19 involving testing patients at certain hospitals and primary care sites with severe respiratory infections who do not meet the COVID-19 case definition. The system is intended to identify the spread of COVID-19.
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Gave authorities power to direct people to undergo testing and isolate(...)Announced10/02/2020Policy details
The UK Government provided powers for medical professionals, public health professionals and the police to require people to undergo screening and assessment and, if necessary, isolate from others for a certain period of time.
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Increased testing capacity(...)Announced07/02/2020Policy details
The UK Government increased diagnostic capacity from one laboratory in London to 12, starting 10 February 2020.
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Began tracing people who had travelled to Wuhan(...)Announced27/01/2020Policy details
The UK Government directed Public Health England to trace people who had been to Wuhan in the past 14 days.
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Established public health services at Heathrow airport(...)Announced24/01/2020Policy details
The UK Government set up a public health hub at Heathrow (receiving 3 flights per week from Wuhan) consisting of clinicians and other public health officials, in addition to existing port health measures.
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Implemented screening measures for returned travellers(...)Announced22/01/2020Policy details
The UK Government implemented enhanced monitoring for all people returning on a direct flight from Wuhan, with a number of measures to provide advice to travellers if they feel unwell.
A Port Health team met each flight to check for symptoms of coronavirus, leaflets were made available across all UK airports, and individuals were advised to seek medical attention if they developed respiratory symptoms within 14 days of visiting Wuhan.
United States
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Made coronavirus testing free and funded testing development(...)Announced18/03/2020Policy details
The U.S. Congress made COVID-19 testing free by funding up to $1 billion through the U. S. Department of Health and Human Services, as part of the phase 2 and phase 3 legislation. Phase 3.5 legislation included $25 billion to increase testing.
This measure covers the cost of COVID-19 testing for both insured and uninsured Americans, including through Medicare and Medicaid.
Under phase 2 legislation, the measure also provides $82 million to TRICARE, the U.S. military healthcare system; $64 million to the Indian Health Service through the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services; and $60 million to the Veterans Health Administration in the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs in order to fund testing and detection of COVID-19.
Phase 3 legislation required all private insurance plans to cover coronavirus treatment and vaccines in ensuring all testing is free.
Phase 3.5 legislation allocated $25 billion to improve testing, including: $11 billion for states, localities, territories, and Tribes; $1 billion to the CDC for activities to support testing; $1.8 billion the NIH and $1 billion for the Biomedical Advanced Research and Development Authority (BARDA) to develop faster tests; $22 million for the FDA to quicken development and approval of diagnostics; $600 million for Community Health Centers and $225 million for Rural Health Clinics to support testing; and up to $1 billion to cover the cost of testing uninsured people. The legislation also required the Department of Health and Human Services to submit a strategic testing plan to Congress.
Vietnam
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Released COVID-19 tracing and information app(...)Announced09/03/2020Policy details
The Government of Vietnam released an app to trace COVID-19 cases and disseminate official information.
Citizens can update their daily health status and they can also provide information to the best of their knowledge about cases suspected of having the COVID-19 in their residential areas.
Data collected through the app will help the nation’s health sector to identify who needs medical assistance in the fastest and most effective manner.
The app also serves as an official channel for competent authorities to disseminate the COVID-19 epidemic situation as well as health recommendations to citizens. -
Began mass production of test kits(...)Announced05/03/2020Policy details
The Ministry of Science and Technology (MOST) announced the results of manufacturing a real-time RT-PCR kit for detection of the novel coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2).
The production capacity is about 10,000 sets per day, and capacity can be tripled if required.
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Established testing venues(...)Announced26/02/2020Policy details
The Government of Vietnam established 30 locations for COVID-19 testing, at clinics, hospitals and laboratories.
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Began preparing quarantine facilities(...)Announced03/02/2020Policy details
The Ministry of Defence prepared to turn military base camps into quarantine camps for people arriving from China.
Medical products and medicines
How governments are managing supplies of medical products and medicine
Argentina
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Received aid from China(...)Announced14/04/2020Policy details
The Argentine Government agreed to receive 13 tons of sanitary equipment provided by China, such as medical equipment and protection for frontline healthcare workers.
On 14 April, Argentina's national airline arranged a special flight to Shanghai to fetch the provided goods. To the date, three flights have been completed.
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Eliminated import taxes on certain medical and cleaning supplies(...)Announced01/04/2020Policy details
The Argentine Government established a zero-percent rate to import taxes applied to supplies that are considered ‘critical’.
Alcohol, lab and pharmacy equipment, gloves, disinfectants and sanitary supplies fit in this category. The aim is to avoid an eventual shortage of supplies.
This policy will remain in place for the period of the national sanitary emergency.
Australia
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Limited the amount of prescription medicine people can buy at once(...)Announced19/03/2020Policy details
The Australian Government instructed pharmacists to limit the sale of certain prescription medicines to one month’s supply. Which medicines are not clear from publicly available information.
Sales of certain over-the-counter medicines such as Ventolin and paracetamol were limited to one unit per purchase.
The Government also encouraged pharmacists to limit sales of all medicines to one month’s supply or unit. Children’s medicine, like panadol syrup and similar medicines, were asked to be placed behind the counter.
Austria
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Exempted domestic purchase of protective masks from sales tax(...)Announced24/04/2020Policy details
The Ministry of Finance budget committee passed a proposal that exempted the dometic purchase of protective masks from sales taxes. This measure applies to delieveries between April 13 and August 1, 2020.
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Reduced sales taxes on breathing masks(...)Announced14/04/2020Policy details
The Ministry of Finance reduced sales taxes on breathing masks from 20% to 0% between April 13, 2020 and August 1, 2020.
The exemption applies to deliveries and intra-community acquisitions.
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Established local production sites for protective gear(...)Announced27/03/2020Policy details
No further details are recorded for this policy. Refer to the citations below for more information.
Brazil
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Removed import tax on certain products for responding to pandemic(...)Announced17/04/2020Policy details
Products destined to fight the pandemic caused by the new coronavirus that are imported by mail order or international air parcel in the amount of up to US $ 10,000 will have their Import Tax rates zeroed until September 30th. In addition, these goods will be exempt from IPI and PIS / Cofins. The removed of import tax is applicable to 141 products as at 17 April 2020.
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Removed import tax on certain products for responding to pandemic(...)Announced08/04/2020Policy details
The Ministry of the Economy approved the zeroing of the Import Tax on 41 more products used to fight the pandemic of the new coronavirus in Brazil.
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Removed import tax on certain products for responding to pandemic(...)Announced03/04/2020Policy details
The Ministry of the Economy approved the zeroing of the Import Tax on 25 inputs, components and accessories used in the manufacture and operation of respirators and ventilators and protective masks.
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Removed import tax on certain products for responding to pandemic(...)Announced26/03/2020Policy details
The Ministry of Economy approved the zeroing of the Import Tax rate for 61 more pharmaceutical and medical-hospital products used in the fight against Covid-19.
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Removed import tax on certain products for responding to pandemic(...)Announced18/03/2020Policy details
The Ministry of Economy approved the zeroing of the Import Tax rate for 50 medical and hospital products necessary to fight the pandemic caused by Covid-19.
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Removed import tax on certain products for responding to pandemic(...)Announced16/03/2020Policy details
The Ministry of Economy will reduce the import tariffs for products of medical use to zero in addition to the temporary exemption from IPI for domestically produced or imported goods, which are necessary to combat Covid-19.
Canada
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Established a COVID-19 Supply Council to advise on procurement(...)Announced03/05/2020Policy details
The Canadian government established a COVID-19 Supply Council. This will be chaired by the Minister of Public Services and Procurement and is made up of 17 members from the private and non-profit sectors. The council aims to provide advice to the government on the procurement of critical goods and services required as part of Canada’s response and recovery.
The Council aims to provide advice on building innovative and agile supply chains for goods in wide use such as masks, gloves and disinfectants, including production, sourcing, shipping and distribution strategies.
This partnership with the private and non-profit sectors is intended to complement Canada’s whole-of-government response.
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Worked with Canadian companies to produce medical supplies and equipment(...)Announced07/04/2020Policy details
The Canadian Government announced plans to collaborate with Canadian comapnies to supply items needed by frontline health workers.
The collaborative projects include purchasing Canadian made ventilators through an accelerated process, research into the development of easy-to-produce ventilators with easily accessible parts, using alternative materials to augment to the supply of medical gowns, establishing and securing new supply chains to produce medical gowns from new Canadian sources, purchasing and producing masks for health care workers, and purchasing hand sanitizer from Canadian companies.
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Expedited access to medical devices, including test kits(...)Announced18/03/2020Policy details
The Canadian Government approved an interim order to expedite review of medical devices, including test kits. The measure is intended to speed up the importation and sale of medical devices used to diagnose, treat or prevent COVID-19.
China
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Advised provinces to strengthen medical product supply(...)Announced03/02/2020Policy details
The Chinese Government advised all provinces to start emergency production of medical supplies, and to prioritise supply in Hubei province.
France
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Authorised certain drugs to be used to treat COVID-19 patients(...)Announced23/03/2020Policy details
The French government authorised doctors to prescribe hydroxychloroquine and the combination of lopinavir and ritonavir to be used to treat patients with COVID-19.
The drugs were approved by the Council of Public Health and were recommended for patients with pneumonia or oxygen deficiency. Paracetamol and rivotril were also authorized to be used in an injectable form.
In order to ensure the drugs are available to patients, the bill prohibited pharmacies from exporting hydroxychloroquine or lopinavir/ritonavir.
These drugs can only be sold by pharmacies to people holding a prescription from an authorized doctor. The government also limited the sale of paracetamol to two boxes per customer and prohibited the online sale of paracetamol. In the case that drugs intended for human use ran out, they could be substituted with veterinary drugs used for similar therapeutic purposes.
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Distributed free masks to health care professionals(...)Announced23/03/2020Policy details
The French Government distributed masks from its national stock by designated pharmacies for free to professionals who fall into the following categories: doctors, nurses, pharmacists, physical therapists, dentists, midwives, providers of medical services and equipment, and employees at care centers for seniors or disabled people.
The ordinance specifies that the masks are to be delivered by wholesalers to pharmacies, who will then label the boxes of masks to be given to healthcare workers, and that these pharmacies will receive tax breaks. -
Authorised pharmacies to extend the length of prescriptions and create hand sanitiser substitutes(...)Announced23/03/2020Policy details
The French government authorised pharmacies to perform unconventional services in order to meet people’s medical needs during the pandemic.
Official pharmacies are authorised to make hand sanitiser, provided it is up to World Health Organization processes and standards.
The ordinance also allows pharmacies to make changes to prescriptions. To avoid people running out of their prescription during lock down, pharmacies are allowed to increase the amount of certain drugs given to patients.
Similarly, to prevent people from going to their doctor to get a prescription renewed, pharmacies have also been given authorisation to extend the duration of prescriptions for certain drugs.
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Instituted price controls on hand sanitiser(...)Announced23/03/2020Policy details
The French Government set price controls on all brands of hand sanitiser. The set prices included taxes and vary by the volume of sanitizer being sold in a container. Prices set can be changed by the Economic Minister in the future within a certain range.
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Provided additional funding to hospitals for personal protection equipment and salaries(...)Announced18/03/2020Policy details
The French Government allocated €2 billion to hospitals for the purchase of materials, such as masks, and to increase employees’ pay.
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Requisitioned specialised masks to provide to healthcare professionals(...)Announced04/03/2020Policy details
The French government announced that it was requisitioning the existing stock of masks and facilities for producing masks.
Of the 150 million masks in the country’s stockpile, all were taken out for use among health professionals in areas with a higher rate of infection.
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Advised against wearing masks to prevent shortages(...)Announced29/02/2020Policy details
The French government said that people do not need to wear masks unless advised by a doctor.
In order to avoid a shortage, the announcement asks that people not go to the pharmacy to buy masks.
Pharmacies were instructed not to give out or sell masks unless authorised to do so.
Germany
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Established a task force to support national and European production of personal protective equipment and testing equipment(...)Announced09/04/2020Policy details
The German Government established a "Production Capacities and Production Processes" task force. It will support the timely establishment of national and European value chains for personal protective equipment, test equipment and active substances.
The task force’s main focus will be to enable and promote private sector investment in production capacities. To this end, the Federal Government will support the companies with subsidies and ensure long-term planning for investors.
The task force will work with the federal procurement unit established on 30 March 2020.
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Established a procurement unit for personal protective equipment(...)Announced30/03/2020Policy details
The German Government established a procurement unit at the Federal Ministry of Health to coordinate short-term procurement of medical protective equipment.
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Simplified regulations for public procurement(...)Announced23/03/2020Policy details
In Germany, the regulations for public procurement were simplified by the Federal Ministry of Economics and Energy (BMWi) in order to allow fast access to resources.
The policy is intended to allow faster access to resources for hospitals, doctors and all administrative units, institutions and people working to manage the pandemic.
In the case of urgent awards both above and below the EU thresholds, no contract notice need be published. Companies can be contacted directly by phone or e-mail and offers can be requested.
The actual time limits for tenders can be kept short. In particular, urgently needed medical supplies such as disinfectants, disposable gloves, masks, protective equipment and medical devices can be purchased immediately. The same applies to services to maintain the working capacity of the public administration, for example when higher IT capacities have to be created at very short notice.
India
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Increased funding for treatment and procurement(...)Announced09/04/2020Policy details
Government of India announced funding of Rs.15,000 crores as part of the India COVID-19 Emergency Response and Health System Preparedness Package.
The funds will be used for both immediate COVID-19 emergency response and medium-term support.
The key objectives of the package include providing an emergency response to slow and limit COVID-19 in India through the development of diagnostics and dedicated treatment facilities and centralised procurement of essential medical equipment and drugs required for treatment of infected patients.
The package also aims to support prevention and preparedness for future disease outbreaks.
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Provided funding for new ventilators(...)Announced01/04/2020Policy details
The Security Printing and Minting Corporation of India Ltd provided Rs. 1,98,67,680 to the All India Institute Of Medical Science for procurement of 45 ventilators.
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Increased funding for healthcare services and COVID-19 treatment(...)Announced24/03/2020Policy details
The Government of India provided 15 thousand crore rupees for treating Coronavirus patients and strengthening the medical infrastructure of the country.
This funding will go toward increasing the number of COVID-19 testing facilities, personal protective equipment, isolation beds, ICU beds, ventilators and other essential equipment.
Iran
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Received medical supplies from UNICEF, China, Turkey, Austria, Germany, the UK and France(...)Announced03/03/2020Policy details
No further details are recorded for this policy. Refer to the citations below for more information.
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Called for an end to US sanctions on Iran(...)Announced29/02/2020Policy details
The Government of Iran called for an end to US-imposed sanctions against Iran.
The government stated that sanctions and trade restrictions had blocked the purchase of medicine and medical equipment.
This request was expanded upon in a 12 March letter to the UN Chief from the Iranian Foreign Minister.
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Received medical supplies from the Chinese government and Red Cross(...)Announced27/02/2020Policy details
The Government of Iran received 20,000 COVID-19 test kits and other medical supplies from the Chinese government and the Red Cross.
Ireland
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Removed value added tax on certain medical supplies(...)Announced08/04/2020Policy details
The Irish Government will apply a zero rate of value added tax (VAT) to certain medical supplies used to respond to COVID-19.
VAT will be zero rated for personal protective equipment, ventilators and oxygen supplied to hospitals, nursing homes, GP practices, and other health services for use in COVID-19 related health care services.
The decision implements a decision by the EU Commission.
Morocco
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Regulated the price of medical masks and hydroalcoholic gels(...)Announced16/03/2020Policy details
No further details are recorded for this policy. Refer to the citations below for more information.
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Banned the export of hygiene products such as hand sanitizers(...)Announced15/03/2020Policy details
No further details are recorded for this policy. Refer to the citations below for more information.
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Imposed license requirements for the export of medical masks and hand sanitizers(...)Announced12/03/2020Policy details
No further details are recorded for this policy. Refer to the citations below for more information.
Netherlands
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Sent medical resources to Dutch Caribbean(...)Announced05/04/2020Policy details
The Dutch Government has sent essential medical equipment, protective gear and medicines to Sint Maarten to treat people with COVID-19 in the Dutch Caribbean.
The resources provide for six extra intensive care units in Sint Maarten hospital to treat all patients from the islands. The Dutch Government is arranging to send additional medical personnel too.
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Sent additional medical resources to Dutch Caribbean(...)Announced05/04/2020Policy details
The Dutch Government has sent additional medical equipment, protective gear and medicines to the Caribbean island of Sint Maarten to help treat COVID-19 patients.
The additional resources has been aimed at enhancing capacity of the mobile hospital (so-called Hospitainer), which has been established with six independent intensive care units to help tackle COVID-19 in the Caribbean Netherlands.
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Established centre to coordinate the medicine supply(...)Announced01/04/2020Policy details
The Dutch Government has established a national medicines coordination centre, organised by the Dutch Association of Hospital Pharmacists (NVZA).
The centre monitors the availability of medicine stocks in hospitals, pharmacies and other suppliers to ensure necessary medicines are available for corona patients in intensive care.
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Exempted protective equipment for healthcare sector from sales tax in the Carribean Netherlands(...)Announced31/03/2020Policy details
Customs authorities in the Caribbean Netherlands has enforced tax exemptions for the import of personal protective equipment in tackling COVID-19.
Anyone or any business importing protective equipment for healthcare institutions will be exempt from having to pay the general expenditure tax (sales tax). Those wishing to sell such equipment will not receive an exemption.
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Established a national consortium to purchase medical equipment(...)Announced24/03/2020Policy details
The Dutch Government has set up a joint initiative called the 'National Consortium for (Medical) Aids' with hospitals, academic centers, suppliers and producers.
The aim of the consortium is to be able to jointly purchase and distribute medical equipment for the care of COVID-19 patients. This includes masks, protective jackets, goggles, gloves, diagnostic test kits etc.
The consortium is intended to prevent these products from being sold at extortionate prices or not meeting health and safety requirements. 690,000 masks have already been delivered with more expected til the end of May, covering millions of units in total.
New Zealand
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Increased funding for medicines(...)Announced10/05/2020Policy details
The New Zealand Government provided NZ$160 million over four years to increase the budget of PHARMAC, the government agency that publicly funds certain pharmaceuticals and medical devices.
The funding is intended to ensure continued access to medicine during increased global pressure on supply chains.
The funding is a part of the annual government budget announcement.
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Provided funding for development of innovative responses to COVID-19(...)Announced06/05/2020Policy details
The New Zealand Government established a fund of NZ$25 million to support the fast development of new products and services that could help to detect, diagnose, treat or prevent COVID-19.
The fund assists with research and development, prototyping and pre-production activities.
The fund, established in March, had paid NZ$6.75 million as at 6 May 2020. Projects funded included an antibodies test, a simple ventilator, and vaccine research.
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Directed stocktake of personal protective equipment(...)Announced23/04/2020Policy details
The Minister of Health directed a rapid stocktake of personal protective equipment distribution.
The stocktake is concerned with assessing the District Health Board's distribution systems and ensuring PPE is being distributed promptly to healthcare providers, and the process for dealing with complaints and problems.
The Office of the Auditor-General is conducting a review of the PPE distribution system.
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Increased funding for purchase of personal protective equipment(...)Announced18/04/2020Policy details
The New Zealand Government provided NZ$200 million for purchasing personal protective equipment. The government is now distributing face masks through a national system.
The government has 20 million masks, 9.4 million pairs of gloves and 1.2 million aprons in stock. Orders worth NZ$140 million have been placed for 75 million items of PPE, including 17 million masks, more than 2 million gowns and coveralls and 13.8 million gloves.
The funding is drawn in part from the dedicated NZ$500 million health fund announced on 17 March 2020 and partly from the COVID-19 Response and Recovery Fund.
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Increased funding for essential medicines(...)Announced18/04/2020Policy details
The New Zealand Government has provided an addition NZ$35 million to PHARMAC — the government agency that publicly funds certain pharmaceuticals and medical devices.
The funding will cover the increased cost of some essential medicines, and increase access to a number of medicines including nine cancer treatments.
The funding is drawn in part from the dedicated NZ$500 million health fund announced on 17 March 2020 and partly from the COVID-19 Response and Recovery Fund.
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Established trade agreement with Singapore concerning essential products(...)Announced15/04/2020Policy details
The New Zealand Government entered a trade agreement with Singapore concerning continuing trade in essential COVID-19 related products.
The agreement lists more than 120 products on which both countries will undertake to remove tariffs, not to impose export restrictions and to remove non-tariff barriers to trade. The countries also undertake to keep supply chains operating effectively for the listed products.
The products include personal protective equipment, medical equipment, nutritional products, medicines and hygiene supplies.
The agreement is an 'open plurilateral' agreement which means other WTO member countries may join at any time. New Zealand and Singapore encourage other countries to join.
The agreement builds on a declaration made by New Zealand and Singapore on 21 March 2020.
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Reduced tariffs on medical and hygiene imports needed for the COVID-19 response(...)Announced28/03/2020Policy details
The New Zealand Government will grant tariff concessions on medical and hygiene imports needed for the COVID-19 response. Concessions will be made for all diagnostic reagents and testing kits used for COVID-19 testing and soap imports to begin with. Other products will be identified in the coming weeks. The reduction in tariffs is intended to reduce the cost of importing goods required for the COVID-19 response.
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Limited the amount of prescription medicine that people can buy at once(...)Announced26/03/2020Policy details
The New Zealand Government has limited the supply of prescribed medicines that pharmacies can sell. Starting 27 March, prescriptions will only be available for one month’s worth at a time, or three months for oral contraceptives. Exceptions can be made for people who would find it difficult to regularly refill their prescriptions. This could include people with disabilities, or people who live in rural areas.
The changes are intended to stop stockpiling, and to ensure everyone can access medicine. There are no changes to the supply of medicine to pharmacies, or to the way prescriptions are issued by doctors to patients.
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Centralised supply of personal protective equipment to health workers(...)Announced26/03/2020Policy details
The New Zealand Government is coordinating distribution of personal protective equipment, including masks, to health services and essential workers. On 26 March, 640,000 masks from the national reserve were provided to District Health Boards. There are 18 million masks in the national reserve. Seven million masks will be distributed from the reserve in the weeks following 31 March 2020. A domestic producer in Whanganui is producing 80,000 masks per day and is increasing production.
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Made joint commitment with Singapore about continuing trade of essential goods and medical supplies(...)Announced21/03/2020Policy details
The New Zealand government and Singapore made a joint statement of their commitment to to keep supply chains open and to remove any existing trade restrictive measures on essential goods, especially medical supplies, in the face of the Covid-19 crisis.
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Established payments to maintain air freight services(...)Announced17/03/2020Policy details
The New Zealand Government will provide NZ$600 million to support airlines and air freight operators to maintain air freight services. Airlines and air freight businesses will be invited to submit proposals for financial support to deliver freight capacity on key routes.
The funding is intended to preserve New Zealand’s access to critical imports of medicines and medical supplies, and the export of high value goods. NZ$1 million of the funding has been committed to Air New Zealand freight flights.
Pakistan
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Streamlined approval for ventilator manufacture(...)Announced09/04/2020Policy details
The Special Assistant to the Prime Minister on Health announced that the Pakistan Government would facilitate firms wishing to manufacture ventilators locally.
A committee would be formed under the Drug Regulatory Authority of Pakistan, which would process applications from firms as soon as possible.
This measure is intended to speed up the supply of ventilators to overcome shortage.
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Approved the manufacture of anti-malarial drug(...)Announced09/04/2020Policy details
The Drug Regulatory Authority of Pakistan approved the local manufacture of Chloroquine Phosphate-Active Pharmaceutical Ingredient (API).
Chloroquine is an anti-malaria drug that is being tested as a potential treatment for COVID-19.
This measure was taken to enable local manufacturers to meet the requirements of pharmaceutical companies that make chloroquine phosphate tablets, injections and syrups.
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Banned the export of antimalarial drugs(...)Announced03/04/2020Policy details
The Ministry of Commerce banned the export of all antimalarial drugs.
The measure was taken to allow the government to stockpile these drugs in case of their possible use to treat COVID-19 patients.
This measure was temporarily revoked on 6 April so that formal approval could be sought by the Ministry of Health from the federal cabinet. The ban was reissued on 9 April.
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Increased funding for medical equipment and infection tracing(...)Announced25/03/2020Policy details
The National Disaster Risk Management Fund (NDRMF) provided Rs7.89 billion to the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) for efforts to stop the spread of COVID-19.
The NDRMF is a not-for-profit company owned by the Pakistan Government, and the NDMA is the lead agency coordinating the Pakistan Government’s COVID-19 response plan.
Part of the funding will come from a loan made to the NDRMF by the Asian Development Bank.
The funding will go toward measures to respond and minimise the impact of the pandemic by strengthening surveillance, improving case management, taking infection prevention measures, among other things.
Equipment that will be funded includes testing kits, viral RNA extraction kits, mobile X-ray machines, clinical ICU ventilators, syringe pumps, N95 masks, Tyvek suits (protection suits for health care staff), thermal guns and scanners
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Funded new medical equipment, including testing kits and ventilators(...)Announced24/03/2020Policy details
The Pakistan Government announced that it will provide Rs25bn to the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) for medical and rescue equipment, such as testing kits and ventilators.
The NDMA is the lead agency coordinating the Pakistan Government’s COVID-19 response plan.
Separately, the Pakistan Government set aside Rs50 billion to provide financial support to medical staff, hire more staff, and for equipment, uniforms and protection. This funding is part of the RS1.25 trillion economic package announced by Prime Minister Imran Khan aimed at absorbing the adverse impacts of the pandemic.
Saudi Arabia
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Stopped the export of medical supply and laboratory products(...)Announced02/03/2020Policy details
The Saudi Customs Authority has stopped the export of medical supplies and laboratory equipment and reagents that can be used to detect, treat or prevent COVID19.
South Africa
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Limited the export of certain medical products(...)Announced27/04/2020Policy details
The International Trade and Administration Commission is required to consult with the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition on all applications for export permits of certain medical products.
The items requiring consultation are alcohol Hand sanitizers, face masks, hydroxychloroquine,albumin (Human), and selected vaccines.
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Established fund for public donations for COVID-19 relief measures(...)Announced23/03/2020Policy details
The Government of South Africa established a solidarity fund, into which businesses, organisations and people can donate money.
The fund will complement action taken by the government to stop the spread of COVID-19. It will support efforts to combat the spread of the virus, track the spread, care for those who are ill, and support those whose lives are disrupted.
The fund will be administered by a team drawn from financial institutions, accounting firms and the government. All expenditure will be published on the fund's website.
The Government has provided R150 million as an initial donation to the Fund.
On 9 April the fund allocated R1 billion for purchasing sterile gloves, face shields, surgical masks, test kits and ventilators.
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Funded the import of essential medical products(...)Announced23/03/2020Policy details
The Government of South Africa allocated funds from its R3 billion stimulus package toward the import of essential medical products.
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Financed the import of essential medical products(...)Announced23/03/0202Policy details
The Government of South Africa allocated R500 million to trade finance for the import of essential medical products.
This measure is to ensure that stocks of essential medical products are maintained in the country.
The funding is being delivered by the Industrial Development Corporation of South Africa, which assists with funding and technical assistance for a range of manufacturers to acquire machinery and equipment.
This funding is part of a R3 billion economic stimulus package.
South Korea
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Increased mask rationing to purchase of three masks per week(...)Announced24/04/2020Policy details
The Ministry of Food and Drug Safety announced that effective 27 April, South Koreans and residents would be eligible to purchase up to three discounted masks per week through the public distribution system, one more than was previously allotted.
Masks will remain available at pharmacies and designated locations nationwide. In addition, the government announced it would send 1 million masks to Korean War veterans residing abroad.
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Expanded mask rationing system to include foreigners(...)Announced20/04/2020Policy details
The Ministry of Health and Welfare announced that foreigners would now be able to purchase discounted masks under the public mask distribution scheme previously restricted to residents with National Health Insurance.
Effective April 20, foreign residents with an alien registration card or residence card will be able to purchase up to two masks per week at pharmacies and designated locations nationwide.
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Implemented mask rationing system to purchase of two masks per week(...)Announced09/03/2020Policy details
South Korea launched a nationwide mask rationing system to stabilize supply.
South Korean citizens will be allowed to purchase two masks per week from pharmacies on designated days determined by the last digit of their birth year: 1, 6 on Mondays; 2, 7 on Tuesdays; 3, 8 on Wednesdays; 4, 9 on Thursdays; 5, 0 on Fridays.
Those under 10 and over 80 can have a family member purchase masks on their behalf, provided they submit valid identification and a government-issued housing document.
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Banned mask exports(...)Announced05/03/2020Policy details
South Korea banned exports on protective masks, revising its earlier policy of a 10-percent export cap on daily mask output, effective through June 30.
In addition, the Ministry of Economy and Finance said it would aim to increase daily mask production to 14 million sheets, up from 10 million sheets. Of the total masks produced domestically, 80 percent would be allocated to public retail platforms.
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Limited the export of face masks(...)Announced28/02/2020Policy details
The Korean government required that all manufacturers of face masks reduce exports to 10 percent or less than total capacity. More than half of production must be provided to domestic retailers to ensure adequate public supply.
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Announced penalties on hoarding medical masks(...)Announced05/02/2020Policy details
The Ministry of Economy and Finance announced fines of up to 50 million won (US$ 41,000) or up to two years in prison for mask sellers with more than 150 percent in inventory of their previous year’s average monthly sales, for a period greater than five days.
The measures were enacted to prevent price gouging amidst increasing demand for masks.
Sweden
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Allowed disinfectant to be imported and used in Sweden without labelling in Swedish(...)Announced02/04/2020Policy details
The Swedish Government allowed the Swedish Chemicals Agency to make a temporary exception to the law requiring disinfectants used in Swedish healthcare to have Swedish labels.
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Limited amount of prescription drugs that can be collected per person(...)Announced01/04/2020Policy details
The Swedish Government limited the amount of prescription drugs that can be collected to a three month supply per person.
The intention is to limit people stockpiling drugs and to ensure that there is an adequate supply of prescription drugs available for health services.
The decision was made by the Government on request from the Swedish Medical Products Agency.
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Allowed non-CE-marked protective masks to be used where necessary(...)Announced18/03/2020Policy details
The Swedish Work Environment Authority decided to make a temporary exception until the end of 2020 to allow the use of non-CE-marked protective equipment for emergency services personnel and the defence force.
CE marking is a certification mark that indicates conformity with health, safety, and environmental protection standards for products sold within the European Economic Area (EEA) and is normally required for protective equipment used in Sweden.
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Centralised purchase of protective equipment and testing materials(...)Announced16/03/2020Policy details
The Swedish Government decided that the National Board of Health and Welfare shall become the national procurer of personal protective equipment and testing materials for Covid-19, as well as other critical medical equipment.
The Board will also have the capacity to redistribute equipment as needed between the regions, counties and municipalities.
Taiwan
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Made children's masks available on the government's online ordering system(...)Announced14/04/2020Policy details
The Central Epidemic Command Center approved the sale of children's masks on the government's eMask website and National Health Insurance app starting April 15.
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Required people purchasing child-sized masks to provide their children's National Health Insurance information(...)Announced14/04/2020Policy details
The Central Epidemic Command Center required people wishing to buy child-sized masks either online or in person to furnish the National Health Insurance card information for any child under 16 years of age. The policy took effect April 23 and was aimed at ensuring there were sufficient numbers of face masks for minors.
Thailand
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Reduced corporate income tax for investments in medical sector(...)Announced13/04/2020Policy details
The Thailand Board of Investment confirmed that a 50 percent reduction in corporate income tax for a period of 3 years will be extended to investments in the medical sector.
This extension is on the condition that investments realise production output by 31 December 2020, and that 50 percent of the output is distributed or donated domestically between 2020-2021.
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Removed import duties for products related to the prevention and treatment of COVID-19(...)Announced24/03/2020Policy details
Cabinet removed import duties for products related to the prevention and treatment of COVID-19.
This measure was announced as part of the second phase of the Thai Government’s economic stimulus programme, totalling B117 billion.
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Placed pricing controls on key medical supplies(...)Announced04/02/2020Policy details
Cabinet endorsed pricing controls for key medical supplies. Controlled items include sanitary masks, polypropolene for face mask production, alcohol products for hygiene purposes and waste paper
United Kingdom
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Approved new breathing aid for COVID-19 patients(...)Announced31/03/2020Policy details
The UK Government approved new Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) system breathing aid to help keep COVID-19 patients out of intensive care.
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Announced minimum specifications for rapidly manufactured breathing aid devices(...)Announced29/03/2020Policy details
The UK Government announced a specification of the minimally clinically acceptable Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) system to be used in UK hospitals.
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Established specialist team to distribute medical equipment(...)Announced29/03/2020Policy details
The UK Government established the National Supply Distribution Response Team.
Supported by the armed forces and other emergency services, this team will deliver equipment to NHS Trusts and healthcare settings including GP surgeries, pharmacies and community providers. Equipment delivered will include masks, gloves, aprons, gowns, cleaning equipment, and eye protectors. -
Granted exemptions from medical device regulations(...)Announced27/03/2020Policy details
The UK Government began granting exemptions from medical device regulations to fast-track approval of devices during the coronavirus outbreak.
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Announced minimum specifications for ventilators(...)Announced26/03/2020Policy details
The UK Government announced specifications for ventilators based on the consensus of what is ‘minimally acceptable’ performance in the opinion of the anaesthesia and intensive care medicine professionals and medical device regulators.
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Sought new cleaning technology for ambulances(...)Announced25/03/2020Policy details
The UK Government requested proposals for rapid sanitising technology for ambulances which have carried COVI-19 patients.
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Prioritised applications for manufacturing hand sanitisers(...)Announced18/03/2020Policy details
The UK Government prioritised applications for manufacturers of hand sanitisers and gels to be fast-tracked during the COVID-19 outbreak.
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Asked businesses to make ventilators(...)Announced16/03/2020Policy details
The UK Government requested support from business in the production and supply of ventilators and ventilator components.
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Advised medicine suppliers to retain existing stockpiles(...)Announced11/02/2020Policy details
Thee UK Government advised (i) suppliers to carry out a risk assessment on the impact of coronavirus on their business and (ii) retain existing stockpiles of medical supplies (compiled as a contingency measure ahead of exit from the European Union)
United States
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Expedited approval process for COVID-19 vaccines and treatment(...)Announced06/03/2020Policy details
The U.S. Congress funded $61 million for the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to support the development and review of vaccines and other countermeasures, as well as for monitoring and mitigating shortages to medical supply chains, as part of phase 1 legislation.
Phase 3 legislation provided an additional $11 billion for coronavirus vaccines, treatment, and diagnostics and an additional $80 million for the FDA to prioritize and expedite approval of coronavirus drugs.
Vietnam
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Resumed export of drugs used in COVID-19 treatment(...)Announced07/05/2020Policy details
The Drug Administration of Vietnam has issued a decision to resume the export of 37 drugs having been suspended to be reserved for domestic use during the novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic. The decision was signed by Vu Tuan Cuong, head of the administration, on Tuesday.
Vietnam began to cease exporting the aforementioned drugs on April 16, based on a list compiled since March by the Ministry of Health detailing which medicine was necessary for a COVID-19 quarantine and treatment facility.
The list mainly includes painkillers, antipyretics, antibiotics, infusions, and dialysis fluid.
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Suspended licencing requirement for exports of medical masks(...)Announced29/04/2020Policy details
Prime Minister Nguyen Xuan Phuc signed a resolution on the exports of medical masks amid the COVID-19 prevention and control period, in which he allowed the abolition of the regulation on applying the export licensing regime to medical masks.
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Developed antibody diagnosis testing kit(...)Announced27/04/2020Policy details
The Central Institute of Hygiene and Epidemiology has been co-operating with Japan’s Nagasaki University to develop serological diagnostic bio-products by using the Elisa machine.
The country’s health system has plenty of Elisa machines available that had previously been purchased to diagnose dengue, HIV/AIDS, and immune diseases.
By utilising the bio-products in the Elisa machine, both the sensitivity and accuracy rate has risen to between 90% and 95% out of 100 cases. In contrast with other countries, the Republic of Korea's (RoK) rapid test kits have an accuracy of approximately 70% out of 100 cases.
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Monitored procurement bids for medical supplies(...)Announced27/04/2020Policy details
Prime Minister Nguyen Xuan Phuc has tasked the Ministry of Health and local authorities to promptly review, re-evaluate and inspect bidding packages for the procurement of medical supplies for combatting COVID-19.
The bidding packages range from medical equipment, drugs, face masks to testing kits and ventilators.
Those who violate bidding regulations will be strictly fined.
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Worked closely with domestic businesses to manufacture ventilators(...)Announced04/04/2020Policy details
The Deputy Prime Minister Trinh Dinh Dung asked the Ministry of Health to review the number of ventilators in hand, examine demands and draw up plans for placing orders in case of the spread of the coronavirus.
The ministry is required to work on research and production plans with domestic businesses that volunteer to manufacture ventilators in the country.
This measure is intended to address potential difficulties in supplying ventilators to hospitals when the epidemic breaks out on a large scale. It is also not easy to place orders for the devices from abroad as they are now in short supply in countries seriously hit by the COVID-19 pandemic.
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Controlled export of medical masks(...)Announced28/02/2020Policy details
The Ministry of Health applied the export licensing regime for medical masks to allow export only for the purpose of national assistance, allowing a maximum 25 percent of output for export and 75 percent of output for domestic disease prevention and control.
The above provisions shall not apply to export activities of export-processing enterprises which have been granted investment certificates and medical mask-processing enterprises to foreign traders that have signed processing contracts before 1 March 2020.
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Banned speculation of medical equipment(...)Announced31/01/2020Policy details
The Government of Vietnam banned speculation of goods, masks, supplies and medical equipment for epidemic prevention and control.
Healthcare workers
How governments are recruiting and supporting healthcare workers
Argentina
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Designated COVID-19 as an occupational hazard(...)Announced13/04/2020Policy details
The Argentine Government designated COVID-19 as an occupational hazard. Workers providing essential services, such as healthcare workers, will be protected by the Law of Occupational Hazards and receive compensation in case of infection.
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Introduced online training on intensive care for frontline healthcare workers(...)Announced01/04/2020Policy details
The Argentine Government introduced online training to teach healthcare workers critical COVID-19 treatments involving ventilators, intubations and extubations. Both entry level and advanced training is available.
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Established bonus payments to healthcare workers(...)Announced26/03/2020Policy details
The Argentine Government established an ‘extraordinary payment’ to all healthcare workers who provide medical services. Workers will receive four bonuses at the end of the months of April, May, June and July of ARS$5,000 per month.
Both workers from the private and the public healthcare systems are included in this policy.
Austria
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Provided favourable tax rates to doctors who come out of retirement for COVID-19(...)Announced24/04/2020Policy details
The Ministry of Finance provided for doctors who come out of retirement to resume work related to the coronavirus to receive compensation at a favorable tax rate. They will not suffer tax disadvantages.
Canada
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Worked with Canadian companies to produce medical supplies and equipment(...)Announced07/04/2020Policy details
The Canadian Government announced plans to collaborate with Canadian comapnies to supply items needed by frontline health workers.
The collaborative projects include purchasing Canadian made ventilators through an accelerated process, research into the development of easy-to-produce ventilators with easily accessible parts, using alternative materials to augment to the supply of medical gowns, establishing and securing new supply chains to produce medical gowns from new Canadian sources, purchasing and producing masks for health care workers, and purchasing hand sanitizer from Canadian companies.
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Increased funding for personal protective equipment(...)Announced11/03/2020Policy details
The government of Canada provided the Public Health Agency of Canada with CA$50 million in funding to ensure adequate supplies of PPE such as surgical masks, face shields, and isolation gowns. This funding is intended to support provincial and territory needs as well as federal.
France
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Provided additional funding to hospitals for personal protection equipment and salaries(...)Announced18/03/2020Policy details
The French Government allocated €2 billion to hospitals for the purchase of materials, such as masks, and to increase employees’ pay.
India
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Provided health insurance for frontline workers(...)Announced29/03/2020Policy details
The government announced health insurance cover of up to 50 lakhs rupees for frontline workers, such as doctors, nurses, paramedics, Aasha, ANM workers and sanitation workers.
Ireland
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Increased intake of medical interns(...)Announced10/04/2020Policy details
The Irish Government increased the annual intake of medical interns from 734 to approxiamtely 1,100.
The final intake depends on how many students pass their final exams and accept an internship offer. Exams have been brought forward with the cooperation of medical schools.
The interns will begin at an earlier start date of 18 May 2020 and work as interns until July 2021.
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Established a scheme to mobilise community organisations and volunteers(...)Announced02/04/2020Policy details
The irish Government established a scheme to mobilise community organisations and volunteers, called The Community Call.
The purpose of the Community Call is to coordinate community activity and direct community and voluntary assistance to where it is needed.
The scheme’s immediate focus was assistance for the elderly and vulnerable. The scheme is overseen by a group from the Department of The Taoiseach, the Department of Housing, Planning and Local Government, the Department of Rural and Community Development, the Department of Health, and the County and City Management Association.
The Community Call is managed locally by local authorities, led by the county chief executives. A dedicated phone line is now operational in every county and the national number 0818 222 024 is also now in operation.
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Allowed registration of retired health workers(...)Announced24/03/2020Policy details
The Irish Government allowed registration of retired health workers from a number of professions, including doctors, nurses, midwives, dentists, pharmacists and other health and social care professionals such as social workers, physiotherapists, radiographers, dietitians, opticians and occupational therapists.
The change was made as a part of the Emergency Measures in the Public Interest (Covid-19) Act 2020, which became law on 27 March 2020.
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Began recruitment of people to work in health service during crisis(...)Announced17/03/2020Policy details
The Irish Government began a recruitment campaign called ‘Be on call for Ireland’ encouraging people to work in the public health services. By 23 March 2020, 60,000 people had registred
Nepal
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Asked retired healthcare workers and some medical students to assist with the response to COVID-19(...)Announced10/04/2020Policy details
The Nepal Government requested all retired healthcare professionals to assist with the response to COVID-19.
Medical students with government scholarships will be mobilised to assist with the response.
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Suspended leave for healthcare workers(...)Announced04/04/2020Policy details
The Nepal Government suspended leave and other assignments for health services.
The government also announced that health workers that obstruct the COVID-19 response will be investigated and reprimanded.
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Provided healthcare workers with personal protective equipment(...)Announced30/03/2020Policy details
The Department of Health Services will provide healthcare workers with personal protective equipment, N95 masks, gown, glasses, gloves, thermometers and disinfectant sprayer pumps as per demand and necessity.
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Provided free health insurance and an increased allowance to healthcare workers treating COVID-19(...)Announced16/03/2020Policy details
Health professionals working in the COVID-19 response will be given free health insurance and an increased allowance for their efforts.
Netherlands
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Extended eligibility for personal protective gear for healthcare workers outside of hospitals(...)Announced06/05/2020Policy details
The Dutch Government has extended eligibility for personal protective gear to workers providing domestic help, counseling, daytime activities or meal support outside of hospitals.
There are also guidelines for the use of personal protective equipment for care outside the hospital, based on contamination risks for employees and patients suspected of COVID-19. Personal protective gear includes mouth masks, insulating jackets or aprons, eye protection, and gloves.
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Began to distributed protective equipment based on need rather(...)Announced11/04/2020Policy details
The Dutch Government has announced a new model for distributing protective gear to healthcare providers, based on their need and risk of contamination, rather than equal distribution across all healthcare providers.
The new model will take effect from 13 April 2020, initially for mouth masks and then for other protective equipment. When new masks become available they will be distributed to places where they are needed the most, such as hospitals, nursing homes, mental health facilities and other places where patients are undergoing intensive care for COVID-19.
The new model is in response to concerns about the availability of protective gear for all healthcare professionals. It is intended to provide a targeted approach to ensuring those at the highest risk of contact and contamination to COVID-19 have necessary protection.
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Deployed military medical staff to support COVID-19 response(...)Announced27/03/2020Policy details
The Dutch Government announced the deployment of military doctors, nurses, personnel and supplies to hospitals and public health services to assist public health staff.
Currently 110 military nurses and doctors are deployed in the Netherlands, alongside 51 logistics and planning personnel.
The military is also supporting the enforcement of border controls and travel restrictions, as well as the construction of emergency accomodation and shelters.
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Allowed nurses and doctors with expired registration to return to work(...)Announced18/03/2020Policy details
The Dutch Government has allowed former nurses and doctors to return to work without needing to renew their national registrations, known as BIG registration.
All healthcare professionals in the Netherlands must renew their BIG registration every five years, which allows the public to see what they can and cannot do and if they have the right qualifications. The new measure allows former nurses and doctors (whose registration has expired from 1 January 2018) from being removed from the BIG register to help combat COVID-19 if required.
New Zealand
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Asked retired healthcare workers to return to work(...)Announced09/03/2020Policy details
The New Zealand Government has asked retired healthcare workers to return to work to assist with the response to COVID-19. As at 27 March 2020, more than 2,500 retired healthcare workers had signed up to return to work.
Pakistan
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Distributed additional personal protective equipment to health workers in Sindh province(...)Announced12/04/2020Policy details
The National Disaster Management Authority dispatched additional personal protective equipment for doctors and health workers of 202 hospitals of Sindh.
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Provided personal protective equipment directly to hospitals(...)Announced09/04/2020Policy details
The Minister for Planning and Special Initiatives announced that the Pakistan Government would start providing personal protective equipment directly to hospitals.
Equipment would be provided to hospitals on a priority basis. Supply will begin on 9 April 2020.
The government had earlier announced that it had set aside funding for personal protective equipment.
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Launched training programme on the proper use of personal protective equipment(...)Announced04/04/2020Policy details
The Pakistan Government announced that it would launch a training programme around the proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE).
The measure was announced after it was observed that many health professionals were not aware of the proper use of PPE.
The Special Assistant to the Prime Minister on Health also asked senior doctors to train junior doctors about the correct use of PPE.
South Africa
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Called on suppliers to provide personal protective equipment(...)Announced08/04/2020Policy details
The Government of South Africa called on local suppliers of personal protective equipment (PPE) products to direct offers to a Project Management Office set up for the purpose.
This measure is aimed at addressing the shortage of PPE in the healthcare sector.
Spain
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Asked health professionals not to attend conferences, courses or seminars(...)Announced03/03/2020Policy details
All health professionals were requested not to attend conferences, courses or seminars in order to assure their availability in the days that followed.
Thailand
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Funded free laboratory screening and protective equipment for frontline medical staff(...)Announced08/04/2020Policy details
The Thai Government extended funding to the National Health Security Office to support costs of prevention and treatment, including for free laboratory testing for Thai citizens who meet surveillance criteria, as well as protective equipment for ambulance and healthcare workers.
United Kingdom
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Established life assurance scheme for bereaved families of health workers who have died from COVID-19(...)Announced27/04/2020Policy details
The UK Government set up a new life assurance scheme for families of health workers who have died from COVID-19.
Families of eligible workers who die from coronavirus in the course of their frontline essential work will receive a £60,000 payment.
This will cover full, part-time or locum NHS and public health workers, including GPs, dentists, retired staff and second and final year students taking up paid frontline roles.
Within social care, the scheme will cover employees of publicly funded care homes, home care, directly employed carers including personal assistants and frontline child and family social worker. This includes those providing direct care as well as cleaners and porters who continue to carry out vital duties in these care environments.
Funding will also be provided to devolved administrations to support similar schemes in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.
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Expanded eligibility for testing(...)Announced17/04/2020Policy details
The UK Government expanded access to more frontline workers and symptomatic members of their households.
Police, fire service, frontline benefits workers and those working with vulnerable children and adults are now able to access testing.
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Expanded testing for social care workers and care home residents(...)Announced15/04/2020Policy details
The UK Government expanded its offer of COVID-19 testing to include all symptomatic care residents. It also confirmed that all patients discharged from hospital would be tested before going into a care home.
The Government also confirmed that all social care staff who have COVID-19 symptoms will have access to a test.
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Increased COVID-19 testing for health professionals(...)Announced27/03/2020Policy details
The UK Government began a COVID-19 testing programme for frontline NHS staff, involving borrowing testing equipment from universities, research institutes and businesses to establish new testing laboratories.
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Provided free car parking for health and social care workers(...)Announced25/03/2020Policy details
The UK Government provided funding for free car parking for NHS staff for the duration of the coronavirus outbreak.
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Allowed students and retired healthcare workers and to provide healthcare(...)Announced17/03/2020Policy details
The UK Government allowed regulators to register suitable people as regulated healthcare professionals, such as nurses, midwives or paramedics.
Recently retired professionals and students near the end of their training, among other groups, will be able to be registered and provide health services. Social services regulators will likewise be able to temporarily register former social workers.
The government also suspended various rules that limited the amount of work retired NHS staff could do.
The policy is intended to increase the NHS staff to respond to the coronavirus pandemic. The change was made as a part of the Coronavirus Act 2020.
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Established emergency volunteer system(...)Announced17/03/2020Policy details
The UK Government established an emergency volunteer system to allow people to take leave from work to volunteer in the health and social care system.
Suitably qualified people may take unpaid leave of two, three or four weeks in a four month period. The government will establish a fund to compensate volunteers for expenses and loss of earnings at a flat rate. To volunteer, a person must be approved by a relevant health authority or local authority.
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Released updated PPE guidance for NHS worker(...)Policy details
The UK Government and NHS Leaders released updated guidance for health teams who are likely to come into contact with patients with COVID-19.
The guidance recommends the safest level of personal protective equipment to protect NHS healthcare workers and specifies the type of personal protective equipment that should be worn in different circumstances.
Health services
How governments are adapting healthcare services to handle the pandemic
Argentina
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Guaranteed healthcare for infants(...)Announced07/04/2020Policy details
The Argentine Government confirmed that infants born later than 20 February 2020, who may not yet have a National Identity Document, will be guaranteed medical coverage for the isolation-period and 45 days after it.
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Authorised digital prescriptions during the mandatory self-isolation period(...)Announced01/04/2020Policy details
The Ministry of Health authorized doctors to make online prescriptions for certain medicine to help people comply with the mandatory self-isolation period. Chronic and non-transmissible diseases may be prescribed through this system. Whatsapp, E-mail and Fax are some of the platforms that may be used.
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Established COVID-19 as a 'mandatory notification' disease for health and lab workers(...)Announced30/03/2020Policy details
The Argentine Government added COVID-19 to the list of diseases that health and lab workers must report to authorities. Detailed information must be provided, such as the suspected date of infection and the evolution of the disease.
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Increased the budget of the Ministry of Health(...)Announced26/03/2020Policy details
The Argentine Government modified the 2020 National Administration’s Budget to increase funding for the Ministry of Health to respond to the COVID-19 pandemic.
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Provided extra health funding to provincial governments(...)Announced01/03/2020Policy details
The National Administration started providing extra funding to provincial governments with the intention of responding COVID-19 at a local level. The money will be allocated to municipal and regional public healthcare systems and hospitals.
Over ARS$1,400 million was transferred to several provinces in March. Transfers in coming months will bring the total funding to ARS$17.8 billion. On April 8, a Financiary Emergency Program for provincial governments has been created, with an additional fund of ARS$120.000 million, to support them in a context of low tax collection.
Australia
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Eased restrictions on elective surgery(...)Announced21/04/2020Policy details
The National Cabinet eased restrictions on elective surgery. Starting 27 April 2020, the following surgeries will gradually recommence: IVF; screening programs (cancer and other diseases); post cancer reconstruction procedures (such as breast reconstruction); procedures for children under 18 years of age; joint replacements (including knees, hips, shoulders); cataracts and eye procedures; endoscopy and colonoscopy procedures.
It is expected that one-in-four elective surgery operating lists will reopen.
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Increased funding to mental health services(...)Announced29/03/2020Policy details
The federal government is providing AUD$74 million to support mental health and wellbeing services.
Funding is also allocated to the government’s digital mental health portal, Head to Head, which is to become a single source of authoritative information and guidance on how to maintain good mental health.
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Expanded funding to Medicare telehealth services and to the GP bulk billing incentive(...)Announced29/03/2020Policy details
The Australian Government provided AUD$669 million to expand telehealth services. All Australians may now access support using telephone, or video conferencing technologies to access a range of health services.
In addition, the GP bulk billing incentive will be doubled.
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Increased the level of support provided by the Australian Defence Force(...)Announced27/03/2020Policy details
The Australian Defence Force (ADF) began assisting state and territory governments to undertake quarantine compliance checks of those required to be in mandatory isolation after returning from overseas, liaising closely with local police.
These requirements built on the existing role of the ADF. The range of support now includes contact tracing efforts, industry support for surgical masks production, provision of planning and logistics support to all levels of government, provision of personnel to government agencies, and support for the production of food hampers to supply isolated civilians.
ADF assistance was provided under the arrangements of the Defence Assistance to the Civil Community.
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Approved the temporary suspension of all semi-urgent elective surgery(...)Announced26/03/2020Policy details
The National Cabinet endorsed the recommendation for states and territories to suspend all non-urgent elective surgery, and agreed to extend the deadline for the suspension of semi urgent Category 2 and 3 elective surgeries at private hospitals to 11.59pm on 1 April 2020.
The changes are intended to ensure the national supply of personal protective equipment for the healthcare workforce.
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Suspended non-urgent elective surgeries across public and private health systems(...)Announced25/03/2020Policy details
The Australian Government acted on the advice of the Australian Health Protection Principal Committee and temporarily suspended all non-urgent elective surgeries that do not require treatment within 30 days.
Some exceptional Category 2 surgeries (patients requiring treatment within 90 days) are to continue until further notice. These measures applied in both the public and private health systems.
Austria
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Provided funding for social care institutions(...)Announced27/03/2020Policy details
The Government of Austria set aside 100 million EUR in support for social care institutions.
Brazil
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Provided loans for healthcare companies(...)Announced27/03/2020Policy details
The Brazil's National Bank of Economic and Social Development granted a credit line from BNDES resources for healthcare companies, in the amount of up to R $ 2 billion. The interest applied will be 10% per year.
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Increased funding for health and social services(...)Announced23/03/2020Policy details
The Ministry of Economy Health transferred (R $ 8 billion), State Participation Fund (FPE) and Municipal Participation Fund (FPM) recomposition (R $ 16 billion), and Social Assistance Budget (R $ 2 billion) as part of a cooperation package for states and municipalities to combat Covid-19.
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Allocated the balance of the DPVAT fund to the Unified Health System(...)Announced16/03/2020Policy details
The Ministry of Economy allocated the balance of the DPVAT fund, an insurance system for vehicle accidents, to the Unified Health System (more than R $ 4.5 billion) to directly fight the coronavirus pandemic.
Canada
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Provided funding to support virtual care and mental health tools(...)Announced03/05/2020Policy details
The Canadian government announced CA$240.5 million in funding to intended to develop, expand and launch virtual care and mental health tools.
Working with provinces, territories, and stakeholders, the funding is intended to create digital platforms and applications, improve access to virtual mental health supports, and expand capacity to deliver health care virtually. This includes projects to reach vulnerable Canadians.
Funding will also be allocated to Wellness Together Canada, an online portal that provides Canadians with free resources, tools, and professional support services to help with wellness and resilience, as well as mental health and substance use. It will also support digital products such as the Canada COVID-19 app, which provides symptom-tracking information, latest updates and access to trusted resources.
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Provided funding for youth mental health support(...)Announced29/03/2020Policy details
The Canadian Government announced CA$7.5 million in funding to Kids Help Phone for additional counsellors and volunteers to provide mental health support to Canadian youth.
Kids Help Phone is a 24/7 national support service that offers “professional counselling, information and referrals and volunteer-led, text-based support” to young people in Canada.
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Provided funding to provinces and territories for critical healthcare support(...)Announced11/03/2020Policy details
The Canadian Government issued CA$500 million for provinces and territories for critical health care system needs and to support the mitigation efforts as needed.
This funding is intended to support provinces and territories to access testing, acquire equipment, and enhance surveillance and monitoring.
China
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Subsidised COVID-19 patient treatment costs(...)Announced07/02/2020Policy details
The Ministry of Finance announced that the government would pay 60 percent of treatment costs for people diagnosed with COVID-19.
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Built two new hospitals for treating COVID-19 patients(...)Announced23/01/2020Policy details
The Government provided ¥300 million to build two hospitals: Leishenshan hospital and Huoshenshan Hospital. The hospitals are designed to provide intensive treatment for COVID-19 patients.
Denmark
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Enacted Epidemic Act Section 10 to grant state powers to prevent spread of COVID-19(...)Announced28/02/2020Policy details
The Danish government enacted Section 10 of the Epidemic Act. This allows the government extraordinary temporary powers to introduce measures against the spread of COVID-19.
France
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Distributed free masks to health care professionals(...)Announced23/03/2020Policy details
The French Government distributed masks from its national stock by designated pharmacies for free to professionals who fall into the following categories: doctors, nurses, pharmacists, physical therapists, dentists, midwives, providers of medical services and equipment, and employees at care centers for seniors or disabled people.
The ordinance specifies that the masks are to be delivered by wholesalers to pharmacies, who will then label the boxes of masks to be given to healthcare workers, and that these pharmacies will receive tax breaks. -
Provided additional funding to hospitals for personal protection equipment and salaries(...)Announced18/03/2020Policy details
The French Government allocated €2 billion to hospitals for the purchase of materials, such as masks, and to increase employees’ pay.
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Suspended non-urgent medical services(...)Announced12/03/2020Policy details
French hospitals suspended all non-urgent activities in order to free up hospital beds for those infected with COVID-19.
Hospitals in areas of France that were not yet hit by the virus discontinued non-urgent care to facilitate transfer of COVID-19 patients from areas with a higher rate of COVID-19 infections.
Citizens who contract COVID-19 but do not exhibit serious symptoms are encouraged to avoid going to the hospital or contacting emergency services and instead seek medical consultation via teleconference with their primary care physician.
Germany
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Increased contact tracing capacity(...)Announced15/04/2020Policy details
The German Government introduced various measures to trace all chains of infection and interrupt them as quickly as possible.
The government has funded additional human resources in local public health services to reach at least one team of 5 people per 20,000 inhabitants. In particularly affected areas, additional teams from the federal states are to be deployed and the army will support such regions with trained personnel
The Federal Office of Administration will provide online training to staff optimise the reporting of case numbers and to improve the cooperation of the health services with the RKI (the government’s central scientific institution in the field of biomedicine) in contact tracing.
The government has also established a funding programme for technical equipment as well as upgrading and training of local health services by the Federal Ministry of Health.
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Increased financial support for hospitals(...)Announced27/03/2020Policy details
The German Parliament passed a law to financially support hospitals, which are preparing for an increase in COVID-19 patients. Bed capacities are being increased and additional intensive care treatment options created.
The Covid-19 Hospital Relief Act contains a number of measures to secure the financing of hospitals and ensure that they remain solvent. For postponed plannable operations and treatments, hospitals receive financial compensation from the liquidity reserve of the Health Fund. This is refinanced from the federal budget.
Until the end of September, hospitals will receive a flat rate of 560 euros per day for each bed that is kept free. For each additional intensive care bed that the hospitals create, they will receive a bonus of 50,000 euros.
For additional costs, especially for personal protective equipment, hospitals will receive a temporary bonus of 50 euros per patient. It can be extended and raised if necessary. The provisional nursing fee will be increased by around 38 euros to 185 euros per day.
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Provided compensation payments for medical practices and facilities(...)Announced27/03/2020Policy details
The Covid-19 Hospital Relief Act passed by the German Parliament includes financial support for medical practices and medical facilities which treat Covid-19 patients.
Established doctors can get compensation payments if there is a reduction in fees as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. At the same time, additional costs arising from the care of COVID-19 patients are to be compensated. Against this background, the distribution of fees is to be adjusted promptly.
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Granted easy reimbursement of losses for nursing care services and institutions(...)Announced27/03/2020Policy details
The Covid 19 Hospital Relief Act passed by the German Parliament contains regulations to ensure nursing care and to reduce the risk of infection for those in need of nursing care and all employees working in nursing care.
The additional financial expenditure or reduced revenues caused by the pandemic are to be reimbursed via the nursing care insurance system. Bureaucratic requirements and assessment obligations will be temporarily suspended.
Nursing care insurance funds will be given further leeway to avoid gaps in the provision of nursing care at home.
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Introduced various measures to support nursing employees and people in need of care(...)Announced27/03/2020Policy details
The German Government introduced a set of measures to support nursing employees and people in need of care.
The nursing TÜV will be suspended until the end of September 2020. If the nursing care insurance funds are informed about irregularities at individual facilities, however, inspections will continue to be carried out on an ad hoc basis.
By September, people in need of nursing care will be examined and classified accordingly on the basis of records and a conversation by telephone or video. This avoids unnecessary contact with the patients.
Additional personnel from Medical Services will be provided to relieve nursing facilities and hospitals with additional personnel. About 4,000 nurses and about 2,000 doctors work in the Medical Services.
Fewer personal visits will be made by nursing services to recipients of long-term care allowance. Nursing services are required by law to advise recipients of long-term care allowance at regular intervals and to check whether care at home is guaranteed. These obligatory visits are suspended. Consultations are still possible by telephone, digital or video.
Nursing homes must report coronavirus infections to the nursing care insurance fund. The facility and the nursing care insurance fund then coordinate their efforts to bridge bottlenecks flexibly with personnel from other areas.
Nursing facilities will be allowed to continue to operate, even if fewer nursing staff than legally required can come to work. No cuts are being made to the homes' remuneration.
COVID-19 related costs or loss of income are compensated for by the nursing care insurance fund. Costs will not be charged to those in need of care.
Protective equipment is distributed to the nursing facilities by the federal states. This means that centrally procured protective equipment is delivered to the state health authorities. The allocation is made according to local and regional needs.
India
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Increased funding for treatment and procurement(...)Announced09/04/2020Policy details
Government of India announced funding of Rs.15,000 crores as part of the India COVID-19 Emergency Response and Health System Preparedness Package.
The funds will be used for both immediate COVID-19 emergency response and medium-term support.
The key objectives of the package include providing an emergency response to slow and limit COVID-19 in India through the development of diagnostics and dedicated treatment facilities and centralised procurement of essential medical equipment and drugs required for treatment of infected patients.
The package also aims to support prevention and preparedness for future disease outbreaks.
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Established triage facilities for managing different COVID-19 cases(...)Announced07/04/2020Policy details
The Government of India implemented a system to triage different categories of cases in different facilities.
COVID Care Centers will be used for mild or very mild cases or COVID suspect cases. These will be makeshift facilities that may be set up in hostels, hotels, schools, stadiums, lodges etc.
Dedicated COVID Health Centres will offer care for all cases that have been clinically assigned as moderate. These will either be a full hospital or a separate block in a hospital, and will have beds with assured oxygen support.
Dedicated COVID Hospitals will offer comprehensive care for those who have been clinically assigned as severe. These will have fully equipped ICUs, ventilators and beds with assured oxygen support.
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Launched national telemedicine hub(...)Announced28/03/2020Policy details
The Government of India launched a national teleconsultation centre (CoNTeC) in New Delhi.
Via the centre, expert doctors from various clinical domains will be available 24/7 to answer questions from specialists all over the country.
The centre will use ordinary mobile telephone as well as two way video using WhatsApp, Skype and Google Duo.
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Increased funding for healthcare services and COVID-19 treatment(...)Announced24/03/2020Policy details
The Government of India provided 15 thousand crore rupees for treating Coronavirus patients and strengthening the medical infrastructure of the country.
This funding will go toward increasing the number of COVID-19 testing facilities, personal protective equipment, isolation beds, ICU beds, ventilators and other essential equipment.
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Updated COVID-19 clinical guidelines, including on testing by private laboratories(...)Announced17/03/2020Policy details
The Government of India issued various clinical guidelines relating to COVID-19.
The new guidelines are on clinical management of COVID-19 triage, dead body management, and COVID-19 testing for private sector laboratories.
Laboratory tests should be only offered when prescribed by a qualified physician.
Iran
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Increased testing capacity(...)Announced12/03/2020Policy details
The Government of Iran have increased testing capacity. Over 30 laboratories across the country now have the capacity and at least 20 more will be added.
The World Health Organisation has provided laboratory testing kits to test at least 110,000 people and seven tons of protective equipment and supplies.
Ireland
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Relaxed rules on medical prescriptions(...)Announced03/04/2020Policy details
The Irish Government changed medicine prescription rules to reduce administrative burdens on health services and reduce the need for people to visit a pharmacy.
Doctors can now email prescriptions to pharmacists using a secure electronic system called Healthmail. Prescriptions will be valid for nine months (it was previously six months).
Pharmacists can renew a prescription where it is safe and appropriate to do so. This means people may be able to renew a prescription without visiting a doctor.
The Pharmaceutical Society of Ireland and the Irish Medical Council will provide guidance to pharmacists and doctors on when to renew prescriptions without a doctor visit.
The changes were made by the Medicinal Products (Prescription and Control of Supply) (Amendment) Regulations 2020. They are temporary and will be reviewed by the Minister at a later date.
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Published guidance for prioritising critical care resources(...)Announced03/04/2020Policy details
The National Public Health Emergency Team (NPHET) released a guidance document for clinical staff who may be involved in making decisions regarding the prioritisation of critical care resources in the context of COVID-19.
The Department of Health has been working intensively with the HSE (Health Service Executive) during the last month to significantly increase the critical care capacity within the hospital system.
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Suspended all visits to hospitals and residential healthcare centres(...)Announced01/04/2020Policy details
The Irish Government suspended all visits to hospitals, residential healthcare centres, and other residential settings.
Specific exemptions will be made on compassionate grounds.
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Postponed all non-essential health procedures and services(...)Announced28/03/2020Policy details
The Irish Government postponed all non-essential surgery, health procedures and other non-essential health services.
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Agreed for public use of private hospitals(...)Announced24/03/2020Policy details
The Irish Government entered an agreement with private hospitals to make the private hospitals part of the public health system for the duration of the COVID-19 crisis.
The agreement will bring more than 2,000 hospital beds, along with staff and other facilities, into the public health system. The private hospitals will participate on a not-for-profit basis.
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Established support payments for general practitioners(...)Announced20/03/2020Policy details
The Irish Government agreed to provide support payments for general practitioners to ensure greater access to GP care during the COVID-19 crisis.In exchange, GPs agree not to charge patients for any consultation for diagnosis or treatment of COVID-19.
The agreement between the HSE and a representative organisation for GPs specifies fees the government will pay GPs for particular services. GPs will be paid for remote consultation with patients who may have contracted COVID-19, and for conducting respiratory consultations with at-risk people, regardless of the patient’s eligibility.
Other fees were agreed for patients with special eligibility for services, effectively ensuring universal access to GP care.
The agreement will remain in place for the duration of the COVID-19 emergency.
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Increased funding for health system(...)Announced09/03/2020Policy details
The Irish Government allocated 435 million extra funding for its public health system to assist its response to the coronavirus.
The funding is to be used for strengthening capacity for contact tracing and response, freeing up space in hospitals and in intensive care and high-dependency units, developing and scaling community-based responses.
The funding will also be used for public information campaigns, increased staffing, centralised procurement of medical supplies and devices, and greater use of technology and telephone support.
Morocco
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Established fund to upgrade health infrastructure(...)Announced15/03/2020Policy details
King Mohammed VI ordered the creation of a 10 billion dirham ($1 billion) fund to upgrade health infastructure.
No further details are recorded for this policy. Refer to the citations below for more information.
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Designated facilities for receiving suspected COVID-19 cases(...)Announced03/03/2020Policy details
No further details are recorded for this policy. Refer to the citations below for more information.
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Upgraded the virological diagnostic mechanism and deployed control measures(...)Announced27/01/2020Policy details
No further details are recorded for this policy. Refer to the citations below for more information.
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Identified certain hospitals to receive potential cases(...)Announced27/01/2020Policy details
No further details are recorded for this policy. Refer to the citations below for more information.
Nepal
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Provided free treatment to COVID-19 patients(...)Announced23/03/2020Policy details
The Nepal Government will provide free treatment to all patients with COVID-19 in partnership with government and private hospitals.
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Increased hospital capacity(...)Announced16/03/2020Policy details
The Nepal Government has increased hospital capacity across the country, particularly in Kathmandu.
120 new ICU beds will be set up in Kathmandu and 100 new ICU beds in other major hospitals outside Kathmandu. 300 isolation beds have been set up in Kathmandu, with 1000 isolation beds in preparation.
Training is also underway for nurses and doctors to care for patients with COVID-19.
Netherlands
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Established new visiting scheme for nursing homes(...)Announced06/05/2020Policy details
The Dutch Government has announced a new visiting scheme for nursing homes from 11 May 2020, starting with 25 nursing homes across the Netherlands.
Since 20 March, there has been a ban on people visiting nursing homes, with exceptions for those who are dying. Under the new scheme, one permanent visitor per nursing home resident will be allowed under strict conditions. This includes adequate hygiene, protective equipment and staffing, as well as ensuring a distance of 1.5 meters at all times.
Research is also being carried out in three nursing homes to map out how COVID-19 spreads.
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Published guidelines on caring for vulnerable people in the home(...)Announced16/04/2020Policy details
The Dutch Government has published guidelines for those caring for vulnerable people, including the elderly. The aim is to ensure efficient care and support is available to vulnerable groups of people being cared for at home, including their physical and mental wellbeing.
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Deployed navy ship to assist Caribbean Netherlands(...)Announced09/04/2020Policy details
The Dutch Government has deployed a navy ship for three months to help authorities in the Caribbean Netherlands respond to COVID-19. It is intended to provide support towards the transport of essential food, equipment and personnel; as well as assist maritime border surveillance and local healthcare. A hurricane emergency response kit is also on board.
France and the United Kingdom also have a naval vessel in the area. A coordination centre has been set up with these countries in Martinique to cooperate where necessary.
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Allowed doctors to share patient data(...)Announced08/04/2020Policy details
The Dutch Government has announced a temporary measure to allow general practitioners to share patient data with emergency departments. GPs are ordinarily required to gain permission from patients before they can consult patient data with other healthcare providers. This will no longer be required.
Dutch people who have not indicated a preference on sharing their data are now registered under the 'corona-opt in' scheme to allow GPs to share information. People can opt-out by making a request to their doctor or via volgjezorg.nl.
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Implemented a national protocol for healthcare providers in dealing with COVID-19(...)Announced01/04/2020Policy details
The Dutch Government has implemented a national action protocol for dealing with COVID-19, involving isolation, contact investigation and monitoring of patients to minimise the chance of spreading the infection. All municipal health services (GGD) and hospitals have been informed about the protocols in place, including how to take care of patients and what measures to take.
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Exempted protective equipment for healthcare sector from sales tax in the Carribean Netherlands(...)Announced31/03/2020Policy details
Customs authorities in the Caribbean Netherlands has enforced tax exemptions for the import of personal protective equipment in tackling COVID-19.
Anyone or any business importing protective equipment for healthcare institutions will be exempt from having to pay the general expenditure tax (sales tax). Those wishing to sell such equipment will not receive an exemption.
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Guaranteed funding for healthcare providers(...)Announced25/03/2020Policy details
The Dutch Government has guaranteed financial security for healthcare providers employed by local authorities under the Social Support Act and the Youth Act.
It has asked all local authorities to ensure healthcare providers of youth assistance, youth protection, youth rehabilitation and social support, have financial security until at least 1 June 2020. This includes financing extra costs, compensation for loss of turnover, maintaining cash-flow and easing accountability.
The policy is intended to maintain continuity of care and support, and ensure professionals are deployed where they are most needed.
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Repatriated Dutch Caribbean residents in Columbia for medical treatment(...)Announced20/03/2020Policy details
The Dutch Government, in collaboration with the Healthcare Insurance Office of the Caribbean Netherlands (ZVK), have arranged chartered flights for residents of Bonaire, Saba and Statia to return home from Columbia for medical treatment.
Residents of other islands in the Caribbean Netherlands will stay in Colombia to continue their medical treatment, with repatriation to be confirmed at a later date.
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Adopted a strategy to mitigate the impact of COVID-19(...)Announced16/03/2020Policy details
The Dutch Government has adopted a strategy of mitigating the impact of COVID-19, rather than allowing it to spread unchecked, or attempt total containment.
This policy was recommended to the government by the National Institute for Public Health and Environment (RIVM) who are responsible for coordinating outbreaks of infectious diseases in the Netherlands.
An emergency response team of experts has been established to monitor the outbreak and provide ongoing recommendations to the Government on what to do, including whether current measures can be lifted or increased.
New Zealand
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Increased funding for mental health services(...)Announced09/05/2020Policy details
The New Zealand Government provided NZ$3.5 million funding for mental health and wellbeing support services.
The funding will support particular services or campaigns by the New Zealand Drug Foundation, the Health Promotion Agency, the Mental Health Foundation, Changing Minds, Supporting NZ Families, the Cancer Society, OUTLine New Zealand, and the National Council of Rural Support Trusts.
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Increased funding for aged care facilities(...)Announced18/04/2020Policy details
The New Zealand Government has allocated NZ$26 million to assist residential agred care facilities cover costs directly related to COVID-19.
The funding is drawn in part from the dedicated NZ$500 million health fund announced on 17 March 2020 and partly from the COVID-19 Response and Recovery Fund.
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Created online tools to promote mental wellbeing(...)Announced14/04/2020Policy details
The New Zealand Government funded free access to three online tools to help people maintain their mental wellbeing.
These tools are in addition to the earlier mental health support programmes released by the government. Access is funded through the NZ$500 million additional funding for health services to respond to COVID-19.
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Established an independent review of COVID-19 outbreaks in aged care facilities(...)Announced14/04/2020Policy details
The New Zealand Government established an independet review of COVID-19 outbreaks in aged care facilities.
The decision was made following three deaths linked to COVID-19 among elderly people who were a part of a cluster of cases at an aged care facility.
The Ministry of Health is developing a plan the review.
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Established mental health support campaign(...)Announced07/04/2020Policy details
The New Zealand Government established a campaign to support people’s mental wellbeing during the COVID-19 pandemic. The campaign, called, ‘Getting through together’ provides advice on coping with stress and includes guidance for parents about how to talk with their children about mental health and wellbeing..
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Increased funding for services for Pacific community(...)Announced07/04/2020Policy details
The New Zealand Government has provided NZ$17 million to fund support for the Pacific community to respond to COVID-19. The funding will be used for Pacific health and disability services, increased public health messaging and guidance in Pacific languages, and a new outreach programme involving placing non-clinical health support staff in Pacific communities to link high-risk Pacific people with important services.
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Provided extra funding to doctors’ clinics and pharmacies(...)Announced02/04/2020Policy details
The New Zealand Government will provide NZ$30 million in extra funding to support doctors’ clinics and pharmacies with the additional workload arising from COVID-19, including testing and providing virtual consultations.
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Increased hospital capacity(...)Announced30/03/2020Policy details
The New Zealand Government has increased hospital capacity, including by paying for the fast-tracked completion of a new intensive care unit in Christchurch to provide 36 more intensive care beds.
Public hospitals have 533 ventilators, and there are 247 ventilators controlled by other organisations including private hospitals. The government has ordered more ventilators from overseas. There are 2,500 nurses trained in intensive care and District Health Boards are training new staff to care for ventilated patients.
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Reprioritised healthcare resources to focus on COVID-19(...)Announced25/03/2020Policy details
The New Zealand Government ordered that all non-essential health services close.
Essential health services include those which maintain basic necessities of life, respond to emergency and acute care needs, community health services which support high risk and vulnerable people, and emergency and crisis support for people who feel unwell or safe. Manufacturers, suppliers and repairers that support the health system are also considered essential.Closure of non-essential services is a part of the Level 4 alert, the highest level in the New Zealand Government’s COVID19 alert system, which came into effect on 26 March 2020.
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Accelerated yearly influenza vaccination programme(...)Announced18/03/2020Policy details
The New Zealand Government began its annual influenza vaccination programme early. Healthcare workers will receive a free vaccine from their employer. Free vaccines will be available from doctors’ clinics and pharmacies for people who are aged 65 and over, pregnant, have certain chronic conditions, or young children with a history of severe respiratory illness. Vulnerable populations and healthcare workers will have priority access to the vaccine until 27 April 2020.
Vaccinations normally begin in April each year, with influenza season expected in May. The change is intended to reduce the burden of influenza on the healthcare system while the system is dealing with COVID-19.
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Increased funding for health services(...)Announced17/03/2020Policy details
The New Zealand Government will increase funding for health services by NZ$500 million to respond to the COVID-19 pandemic. Funding will be used to increase public communications, support vulnerable populations and the healthcare workforce, fund increased capacity to test and trace COVID-19 cases, and additional treatment capacity.
Funding has been allocated to contact tracing, establishing community based testing centres, and support payments to doctors’ clinics and pharmacies.
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Declared COVID-19 to be a quarantinable disease(...)Announced09/03/2020Policy details
The New Zealand Government has designated COVID-19 a quarantinable disease under the country’s public health law. The designation allows public health officials to require people to be isolated, quarantined and surveilled. Public health officials may also close premises. Police are permitted to enforce the directions of public health officials.
Pakistan
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Removed substandard sanitiser from stores(...)Announced04/04/2020Policy details
The Minister for Science and Technology advised the Pakistan health department to remove substandard sanitiser from stores.
This measure was taken after testing by the Pakistan Standard and Quality Control Authority revealed that a large number of substandard sanitiser was being sold in the market. To be sold, sanitiser must have a minimum 70 percent alcohol.
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Converted railway coaches into mobile isolation wards(...)Announced31/03/2020Policy details
Pakistan Railways, the state-owned railway company, has converted all its business class and air-conditioned sleeper coaches into mobile isolation wards for COVID-19 patients, while passenger train services are suspended.
The mobile isolation wards can accommodate around 2,000 beds. They can be sent to any part of the country connected with rail on the request of authorities if existing health facilities are unable to cope with the number of COVID-19 patients.
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Declared a national health emergency(...)Announced13/03/2020Policy details
The Pakistan Government declared a National Health Emergency of Public Concern after the World Health Organisation declared COVID-19 a pandemic.
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Directed that mild to moderate patients be isolated at home(...)Announced08/03/2020Policy details
The Pakistan Government directed provincial governments that people exhibiting mild to moderate COVID-19 symptoms be isolated at home, while critical patients be admitted to hospital.
This direction was included in guidelines issued by the Ministry of National Health Services, Regulations & Coordination on 26 March, and in revised guidelines on 2 April.
Peru
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Provided operational control of the public health system to Ministry of Health(...)Announced16/03/2020Policy details
No further details are recorded for this policy. Refer to the citations below for more information.
Russia
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Issued directions on disinfection measures(...)Announced21/04/2020Policy details
Special attention is currently being paid to disinfection measures in transport hubs and vehicles, special treatment regimes for premises, tableware and equipment in all catering establishments, as a result of which recommendations were prepared and sent to the Ministry of Transport of Russia and to the executive authorities of the constituent entities of the Russian Federation.
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Provided diagnostic test systems to all centers of hygiene and epidemiology of Rospotrebnadzor(...)Announced21/03/2020Policy details
No further details are recorded for this policy. Refer to the citations below for more information.
Saudi Arabia
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Launched “Rest Assured” app to provide information to those under quarantine(...)Announced11/04/2020Policy details
The Ministry of Health has developed an application called Tatman “Rest Assured” for citizens and residents who are quarantined either at home or healthcare facilities.
The application provides the subscribers with their test results, health assessment results and updates, contact tracing information and direct communication with the dedicated COVID-19 call centre 937.
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Provided free treatment for all COVID-19 patients(...)Announced30/03/2020Policy details
King Salman Bin Abdulaziz issued a royal decree stating that all COVID-19 positive patients and all COVID-19 suspected cases will receive free treatment and care in governmental and private hospitals.
This decree includes the treatment of violators of residence, labor, or border security laws.
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Postponed all non-essential medical appointments(...)Announced22/03/2020Policy details
To slow the COVID-19 outbreak in the kingdom,The Ministry of Health (MOH) advised that all non-essential/critical medical appointments at governmental and private hospitals and clinics be postponed or cancelled.
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Allocated respiratory isolation facilities for COVID-19 patients(...)Announced03/03/2020Policy details
The Ministry of Health allocated 1,400 respiratory isolation rooms across the Kingdom for COVID-19 patients with severe symptoms.
The Ministry will also provide 870 mobile air purifiers to boost the hospital’s capabilities in patients isolation.
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Established medical call centre for COVID-19 inquiries(...)Announced29/02/2020Policy details
The Ministry of Health (MOH) dedicated the 937 call service centre for all COVID-19 related inquiries.
The 937 call service center personnel include physicians, nurses and client service employees who give the general public phone consultations, home quarantine implementation information and advice on self quarantine after returning from COVID-19 positive countries.
People can either call 937 or post questions on the official twitter page of the service @saudimoh937.
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Launched COVID-19 self-assessment tool on Ministry of Health app(...)Policy details
The Ministry of Health (MOH) launched a COVID-19 self-assessment tool on the ‘Mawid’ app.
This is a six question questionnaire that aims to help people identify their risk of being COVID-19 positive based on recent travel history and symptoms.
The service can either refer patients to the Sihati app where they can get a virtual consultation from physician, or advise the patient to self quarantine or seek further medical advice through the 937 service.
Singapore
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Distributed face masks to all residents(...)Announced03/04/2020Policy details
Singapore’s Ministry of Health will distribute reusable masks to all residents with registered home addresses. The distribution will take place progressively from 5 to 12 April 2020, from collection points at designated points. Household members will be able to collect on behalf of their other household members.
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Established community isolation facility for some COVID-19 patients(...)Announced24/03/2020Policy details
The Ministry of Health set up a Community Isolation Facility for COVID-19 patients who are clinically well enough to be discharged from medical care. The facility has a maximum capacity of about 500 persons.
South Africa
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Increased health sector funding(...)Announced21/04/2020Policy details
The Government of South Africa directed R20 billion to the health sector as part of the response to the coronavirus pandemic.
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Asked municipalities to suspend cuts to water supply during lockdown.(...)Announced13/04/2020Policy details
Ther Government of South Africa called on municipalies to suspend the cutting of water supply during the national lockdown.
This measure is intended to assist citizens in practicing hygiene by washing their hands.
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Established project to manufacture ventilators(...)Announced09/04/2020Policy details
The Government of South Africa established the National Ventilator Project to mobilise the country's technical and industrial resources to manufacture non-invasive ventilators.
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Centralised the treatment of severe COVID-19 cases in certain hospitals(...)Announced23/03/2020Policy details
The Government of South Africa introduced a centralised patient management system for severe cases of COVID-19, and a decentralised primary case system for mild cases.
The measure is intended to prevent hospitals from becoming overwhelmed as the number of cases increases.
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Prohibited people infected with COVID-19 from refusing treatment(...)Announced18/03/2020Policy details
The Government of South Africa required all people infected with COVID-19 to accept medical examination, prophylaxis, other treatment, isolation, and quarantine as directed.
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Distributed clinical information to medical professionals on how to diagnose and treat COVID-19(...)Announced23/01/2020Policy details
The Government of South Africa developed guidelines and case definitions for doctors and nurses in the public and private sectors. The guidelines include information on how to treat and respond to a possible case of COVID-19.
South Korea
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Designated certain hospitals as centres for treatment of cases(...)Announced07/03/2020Policy details
The Korean government designated 303 hospitals as “COVID-19 Protection Hospitals”.
These hospitals operate separate in- and outpatient clinics for respiratory patients, and the majority of them also operate clinics capable of screening for the virus on-site.
The move is intended to limit possible hospital transmission of the virus and to ease fears around hospital transmission that could discourage the public from presenting at hospitals with conditions unrelated to COVID-19.
During the 2015 Middle East respiratory syndrome (MERS) outbreak in South Korea, transmission occurred both within and between hospitals, leading to widespread reports of sick or injured people choosing not to visit hospitals for fear of catching the virus.
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Covered the cost of COVID-19 testing and treatment(...)Announced29/01/2020Policy details
The Ministry of Health and Welfare announced it would pay for all expenses related to testing of suspected cases and treatment of those infected with COVID-19 in South Korea.
Spain
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Required regional health authority to report on core set of healthcare indicators(...)Announced15/03/2020Policy details
The Government of Spain required each regional Health Authority to report a core set of indicators to the CCAES.
These indicators include epidemiological indicators, utilisation indicators, and supply indicators. Authorities must also report on protective personal equipment and diagnostic kits needs.
Sweden
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Increased funding for health and welfare agencies(...)Announced11/03/2020Policy details
The Swedish Government will provide SEK 41 million in additional funding to the Public Health Agency and SEK 20 million to the National Board of Health and Welfare for activities related to Covid-19.
Taiwan
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Made children's masks available on the government's online ordering system(...)Announced14/04/2020Policy details
The Central Epidemic Command Center approved the sale of children's masks on the government's eMask website and National Health Insurance app starting April 15.
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Required people purchasing child-sized masks to provide their children's National Health Insurance information(...)Announced14/04/2020Policy details
The Central Epidemic Command Center required people wishing to buy child-sized masks either online or in person to furnish the National Health Insurance card information for any child under 16 years of age. The policy took effect April 23 and was aimed at ensuring there were sufficient numbers of face masks for minors.
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Disinfected tourist destinations over holiday weekend(...)Announced05/04/2020Policy details
The Environmental Protection Administration disinfected major tourist hot spots during the four-day Tombsweeping Festival holiday, including popular night markets, temples, and sites around the popular beach town of Kenting, in addition to Taipei Main Station.
Local authorities also reported 863 disinfections of transportation hubs and around schools and crowded areas.
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Banned most hospital visits(...)Announced02/04/2020Policy details
The Central Epidemic Command Center banned visitors from hospitals except those visiting patients in critical condition or in deteriorating health.
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Required COVID-19 contacts to follow preventative health measures(...)Announced26/01/2020Policy details
The Central Epidemic Command Centre requires people to cooperate and abide by prevention measures if they are identified as COVID-19 contacts.
Relevant measures include avoiding public places, wearing a face mask when going out, conducting hand and respiratory health, keeping an activity log during the 14-day health monitoring period, wearing a surgical mask, and voluntarily contacting local health bureaus immediately if fever or respiratory symptoms develop.
These measures will be enforced by the CECC, with the assistance of the Ministry of Justice and National Police Agency. Violators will be placed in isolation for quarantine.
Thailand
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Repurposed hotels as field hospitals(...)Announced04/04/2020Policy details
The Thai Government announced preparations to repurpose a total of 16,000 hotel rooms for the isolation and care of patients who are ill, but not so ill as to require hospitalisation.
United Kingdom
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Changed NHS funding model and wrote off hospital debt(...)Announced02/04/2020Policy details
The UK Government changed the model for funding NHS trusts which deliver public healthcare services. If hospitals require extra funding, money will be given in exchange for equity rather than as loans. The government wrote off approximately £13.4 billion of existing hospital debts. The write off is intended to allow the hospitals to spend money on vital services and infrastructure improvements.
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Brought forward funding for community pharmacies(...)Announced02/04/2020Policy details
The UK Government provided £300 million funding for community pharmacies so that they can carry out essential services during the coronavirus outbreak.
This funding was already committed for 2020/21 under the Community Pharmacy Contractual Framework 5-year deal, however, this cash boost has been brought forward.
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Provided guidance and funding for mental health support(...)Announced29/03/2020Policy details
Public Health England published online guidance setting out principles to follow to help people to manage their mental health during the COVID-19 pandemic. The government gave £5 million to mental health charities to expand support services.
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Reduced on-site inspections of certain medical facilities(...)Announced20/03/2020Policy details
The UK Government reduced on-site inspections of laboratories, clinical trials, manufacturing, distribution and pharmacovigilance until further notice.
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Provided funding to assist non-urgent hospital patients to return home(...)Announced19/03/2020Policy details
The UK Government provided funding to assist non-urgent hospital patients to return home. The funding includes £1.6 billion to local authorities for the adult social care workforce and services for the most vulnerable and £1.3 billion to speed up the NHS discharge process. The government expects this policy will make another 15,000 beds available during the coronavirus outbreak.
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Reduced legal requirements on health system(...)Announced17/03/2020Policy details
The UK government made temporary changes to various rules to reduce the administrative burden on health workers.
Detainment and treatment under mental health legislation will require only one doctor’s opinion, rather than two, as previously required. Certain time limits under mental health legislation will be extended or removed.
NHS providers will be allowed to delay continuing care assessments for people discharged from hospital during the coronavirus pandemic.
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Granted authorities powers to give directions to crematoriums, mortuaries and funeral services(...)Announced17/03/2020Policy details
The UK Government granted national and local authorities powers to direct funeral homes, mortuaries and crematoriums on matters such as operating hours, direct companies to use their vehicles to move bodies, and direct others to assist generally. The powers are expected to be sued in extreme situations.
The government also relaxed various administrative and process rules for the death management system to allow it to cope with increased demands.
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Provided guidance on safely providing health and care services(...)Announced13/03/2020Policy details
The Department of Health and Social Care advised staff caring for people receiving care to use protective equipment, for GPs to look at digital appointments, and for Councils to map out all care and support plans.
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Increased staffing of NHS phone lines(...)Announced08/03/2020Policy details
The NHS increased call staff by 500 (more than a third compared to the same period in the previous year) to handle higher demand.
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Listed COVID-19 as notifiable disease(...)Announced05/03/2020Policy details
The UK Government took urgent steps to list coronavirus as a notifiable disease in law. The designation means all doctors must report cases of COVID-19 to public health officials.
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Established capital facility to fund urgent construction of medical facilities(...)Announced11/02/2020Policy details
The UK Government launched a capital facility to support any urgent works for the NHS, including creation of isolation areas.
United States
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Required data collection on COVID-19 cases to include race, ethnicity, and other demographic categories(...)Announced26/04/2020Policy details
The U.S. Congress required that the Department of Health and Human Services submit a report on the number of cases, hospitalizations, and deaths associated with COVID-19 with data to include demographic breakdowns by race, ethnicity, age, sex, geographic region, and other relevant factors as part of phase 3.5 legislation.
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Funded hospitals and healthcare providers(...)Announced27/03/2020Policy details
The U.S. Congress provided $100 billion for hospitals and healthcare providers to reimburse for the costs and lost revenue associated with COVID-19, as part of phase 3 legislation. Phase 3.5 legislation included an additional $75 billion to reimburse hospitals and healthcare providers.
The majority of the phase 1 funds (approximately $65 billion) went directly to hospitals with the rest going to healthcare workers and others. Phase 1 legislation also increased the amount of money the federal government paid to hospitals and healthcare workers for treating Medicare patients.
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Provided $4 billion for public health prevention and response programs across government(...)Announced06/03/2020Policy details
The U.S. Congress funded $950 million for state and local public health preparedness grants through the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) as part of phase 1 legislation. States were to receive no less than $4.5 million each for coronavirus efforts.
Phase 1 legislation also replenished the CDC’s Infectious Disease Rapid Response Reserve Fund with $300 million. The funds had already been used to combat COVID-19.
Phase 1 legislation also included $100 million for the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) through the Department of Health and Human Services for grants under the Health Center Program, which seeks to improve health care for geographically isolated people and those deemed economically or medically vulnerable.
Phase 3 legislation provided a further $4.3 billion in funding for various CDC programs and response efforts, as well as $20 billion for veteran healthcare services and $16 billion for the Strategic National Stockpile to acquire materials such as ventilators and masks.
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Expanded access to telemedicine(...)Announced06/03/2020Policy details
The U.S. Congress funded $500 million in mandatory Medicare telehealth spending through the Department of Health and Human Services to enable telemedicine provision for seniors, as part of the phase 1 legislation.
Phase 3 legislation expanded access to telemedicine by directing Medicare to pay doctors at the same rate for telehealth compared to in-person visits until the end of the public health emergency and allowing all patients to receive telehealth care. Previously, telehealth was only available to those in rural areas.
In addition, the legislation expanded the range of services doctors are able to provide via telemedicine, including emergency visits, and allowed doctors to prescribe controlled substances via telehealth during the pandemic.
Vietnam
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Developed guidelines on plasma therapy to treat COVID-19(...)Announced29/04/2020Policy details
The Vietnamese health ministry confirmed that they would soon issue interim guidelines on the use of plasma from recovered COVID-19 patients as a possible treatment for the disease.
The National Institute of Haematology and Blood Transfusion and the National Hospital of Tropical Diseases are in charge of developing the guidelines on receiving, storing and transporting the convalescent plasma.
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Launched new prevention app and remote health check-up platform(...)Announced19/04/2020Policy details
The Prime Minister attended a ceremony to launch two new high tech apps to help prevent and control COVID-19.
The first technology will allow medical examinations and treatment to be carried out remotely. In particular, it can carry out electrocardiographic consultations and ultrasound scans remotely for people with chronic diseases who should be examined.
The second piece of equipment uses a Bluezone app and can detect other people nearby who are positive for the virus through previously saved data. This will help the authorities track and trace people who have come into close contact with positive patients.
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Launched telemedicine initiative(...)Announced02/04/2020Policy details
The Government of Vietnam launched a telemedicine initiative with the information and communications industry.
Telecommunications businesses will support the Ministry of Health to deploy a remote medical examination system to nearly 14,000 health facilities to reduce the burden of direct medical examination and treatment at hospitals.
Calls will be free of charge to the hotline numbers 19009095 and 19003228 and access will be free to the website of the Ministry of Health and applications for COVID-19 disease prevention.
Telecommunications businesses will also install free wifi at isolation facilities.
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Issued guidance on monitoring, prevention, treatment, quarantine and home isolation(...)Announced07/02/2020Policy details
The Ministry of Health issued guidance on monitoring, prevention and treatment of COVID-19, including on identifying suspicious cases, contact tracing, clustering, testing and reporting, prevention measures, and quarantine, isolation and treatment requirements.
The Ministry of Health also issued guidance on quarantine, prevention measures and a reporting scheme, a fee exemption for meals for people in quarantine, and on medical isolation at home.
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Established mobile quick response treatment teams(...)Announced30/01/2020Policy details
The Ministry of Health established 45 mobile teams to respond quickly to acute respiratory infections caused by the coronavirus, including 25 teams from hospitals and 20 teams from military hospitals.
Hospitals are instructed to set up 1-2 mobile teams. The mobile teams are on duty, ready to respond quickly to provide professional support to hospitals.
Each team includes a hospital leader, and emergency resuscitation doctor, an infectious diseases doctor, and infection control officer, emergency resuscitation nurses and a driver, and is equipped with an ambulance car with full of emergency resuscitation facilities on the vehicle (motorized respirator, oxygen, medicine, infusion), personal protective equipment, and disinfectant chemicals.
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Directed hospitals to prepare for disaster scenario(...)Announced29/01/2020Policy details
The Ministry of Health directed all central (tier 1) hospitals to prepare for the worst case of widespread disease with capacity of 3000 beds, and tier 2 hospitals with capacity of 2000 beds.
Research
How governments are supporting the search for a vaccine and treatments for COVID-19
Australia
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Funded COVID-19 testing and treatment research projects(...)Announced14/04/2020Policy details
The Australian Government will provide AUD$1 million to the CovED intitiative, which uses artifical intelligence to evaluate CT scans to quickly and accurately diagnose the severity of COVID-19 in patients who have difficulty breathing.
The Government will also provide AUD$2 million to the Australian Partnership for Preparedness Research on Infectious Disease Emergencies. The funding will be used to understand the prevalence of COVID-19, improve diagnostic tests, and to develop tools aimed at limiting the transmission of the virus.
Austria
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Funded research into COVID-19 medicines and treatments(...)Announced27/03/2020Policy details
The Government of Austria invested 23 million EUR for research on COVID-19 medicines or treatments.
Canada
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Joined international leaders to launch Coronavirus Global Response pledging event(...)Announced04/05/2020Policy details
The Canadian government joined other international leaders to launch the Coronavirus Global Response.
This initiative is an international online pledging event co-hosted by Canada, the European Union, France, Germany, Spain, Norway, the United Kingdom, Japan, Saudi Arabia as the current G20 presidency, and Italy as the future G20 presidency. The event will begin on 4 May 2020 and will run to the end of May 2020.
The initiative seeks to kick-start global cooperation between scientists and regulators, industry and governments, international organisations, foundations, and health care professionals. The initiative also seeks to raise more than US$8 billion by the end of the pledging period with the intention of supporting the development of rapid coronavirus diagnostics, treatments, and vaccines. The initiative is looking to work with the World Health Organisation to coordinate and prioritize efforts to vulnerable countries.
The funds collected aim to be channelled into three principal strands: diagnostics, treatments, and vaccines. Funds may also be used to strengthen health systems.
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Provided research funding to Canadian biotech company(...)Announced03/05/2020Policy details
The Canadian government provided AbCellera CA$175.6 million in support under Innovation, Science and Economic Development’s (ISED) Strategic Innovation Fund (SIF). This funding is intended to expand efforts related to the discovery of antibodies for use in drugs to treat COVID-19 and build technology and manufacturing infrastructure for antibody therapies to guard against future pandemic threats.
AbCellera Biologics Inc. is a privately held Canadian biotech company.
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Provided further support for medical research and vaccine development(...)Announced23/04/2020Policy details
The Canadian government announced more than CA$1 billion in support for a national medical research strategy to fight COVID-19. This includes vaccine development, the production of treatments, and tracking of the virus. This builds on the CA$275 million investment for coronavirus research and medical countermeasures announced in March.
Funding will go towards a variety of measures, including the establishment of a COVID-19 Immunity Task Force.
In addition, CA$40 million is set aside for the Canadian COVID-19 Genomics Network (CanCOGeN), led by Genome Canada, to coordinate a COVID-19 viral and host genome sequencing effort across Canada. This research is intended to help track the virus, its different strains, and how it makes people sick in different ways, providing information to public health authorities and decision-makers. The results of this work will be available to researchers globally to support additional research, including Canadian vaccine development efforts.
CA$23 million is set aside for the Vaccine and Infectious Disease Organisation-International Vaccine Centre (VIDO-InterVac) with the intention of accelerating the development of a vaccine against COVID-19. This includes supporting pre-clinical testing and clinical trials of a potential vaccine.
CA$29 million is set aside for the National Research Council of Canada to begin the second phase of critical upgrades to its Human Health Therapeutics facility in Montréal.
CA$600 million is set aside through the Strategic Innovation Fund over two years to support COVID-19 vaccine and therapy clinical trials led by the private sector, and Canadian biomanufacturing opportunities.
CA$10 million is set aside for a Canadian data monitoring initiative intended to coordinate and share pandemic-related data across the country.
CA$10.3 million (over two years), and CA$5 million (ongoing), is set aside to support the Canadian Immunization Research Network in conducting vaccine-related research and clinical trials, and to enhance Canada’s capacity to monitor vaccine safety and effectiveness.
CA$114.9 million is set aside through the Canadian Institutes of Health Research for research projects intended to accelerate the development, testing, and implementation of medical and social countermeasures to mitigate the rapid spread of COVID-19, as well as its social and health impacts.
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Established a COVID-19 Immunity Task Force(...)Announced23/04/2020Policy details
The Canadian government established a COVID-19 Immunity Task Force.
The task force is aimed at establishing priorities and overseeing the coordination of a series of country-wide blood test surveys intended to indicate how widely the virus has spread in Canada and provide reliable estimates of potential immunity and vulnerabilities in Canadian populations.
The task force will operate under the direction of a leadership group that includes Dr. David Naylor, Dr. Catherine Hankins, Dr. Tim Evans, Dr. Theresa Tam, and Dr. Mona Nemer.
This measure is part of the government's CA$1.1 billion package of research funding announced on 23 April 2020.
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Provided funding for two new research projects and one clinical trial(...)Announced23/04/2020Policy details
The Canadian government is providing over CA$67,000 through the Stem Cell Network to support two new research projects and one clinical trial. The clinical trial will evaluate the safety of a potential cell therapy to reduce the impacts and severity of acute respiratory distress associated with COVID-19, and the two projects will generate critical information about how cells in the airway and brain are affected by the virus.
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Funded research to develop a COVID-19 vaccine(...)Announced23/03/2020Policy details
The Canadian Government issued CA$192 million worth of funding towards developing a vaccine for COVID-19. This funding will be divided among a range of Canadian institutions, including: AbCellera to support their work on drug treatments, Medicago for vaccine testing and production, the University of Saskatchewan’s Vaccine and Infectious Disease Organization for development and clinical trials, and the National Research Council in Montreal to prepare for the roll-out of vaccines.
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Increased funding for medical research(...)Announced11/03/2020Policy details
The Canadian Government provided an additional CA$275 million in funding to enhance Canada’s capacity in research and development, including research on medical countermeasures (antivirals and vaccine development), and support for clinical trials.
This funding builds upon previously announced CA$27 million funding for coronavirus research in Canada.
Denmark
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Provided research grant for diagnosis or treatment of COVID-19(...)Announced16/03/2020Policy details
The Danish government will provide direct grants to COVID-19 related research projects of up to kr. 50.3 million in 2020.
The policy is intended to produce research results that improve patient treatment or the utilisation of the healthcare system.
The grant allows research projects to receive funding outside of the normal application processes, which can take up to nine months.
The government has also asked relevant state and regional authorities to speed up statutory approvals including scientific ethics approvals, and to urgently disseminate relevant health data for research purposes.
Germany
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Started developing treatment evaluation database(...)Announced15/04/2020Policy details
The German Government, with the support of federal and state research institutions, is developing a SARS-CoV-2 database in which inpatient treatments are documented and evaluated. This is part of the WHO solidarity trial.
Netherlands
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Announced results of research into mink farms found to have COVID-19(...)Announced08/05/2020Policy details
The Dutch Government has announced the results of research into two mink farms found to have COVID-19 at the end of April. Research was conducted to gain more insight into the spread of the virus.
The first results show that no virus was found in the air samples outside the farm. However, the virus has been found on dust particles in the immediate vicinity of minks on the farm. It is still unknown whether people can become infected with COVID-19 through these dust particles.
The research will be repeated in the coming weeks. Employees of the infected farms are required to continue following health advice and use personal protection equipment onsite. The Government has also advised the public not to cycle or walk in a 400 meters radius around infected mink farms, although there is no evidence the virus can spread over longer distances.
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Fast-tracked permits for gene therapy research into COVID-19(...)Announced30/03/2020Policy details
The Dutch Government has fast-tracked the process of issuing licences or permits to researchers who currently use gene therapy in developing drugs or vaccines for COVID-19. All research into gene therapy and genetically modified organisms in the Netherlands must be approved by the Government, and obtain a permit that is usually issued within 56 days. The new measure allows permits to be issued within 28 days instead. The aim is to accelerate the development of a vaccine to combat COVID-19, and allow researchers to start clinical trials much earlier. The measure will be in force for one year and can be extended once for a maximum of one year if necessary.
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Extended subsidy for development of digital healthcare technologies(...)Announced25/03/2020Policy details
The Dutch Government has extended their Incentive scheme eHealth at Home (SET), which allows healthcare organisations to apply for a subsidy of up to €50,000 for the development of new apps, software or other digital solutions that improve their client’s quality of life, including tools to provide better and more efficient healthcare.
As of 27 March, this subsidy is temporarily unavailable due to the unexpectedly large number of applications.
New Zealand
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Provided funding for development of innovative responses to COVID-19(...)Announced06/05/2020Policy details
The New Zealand Government established a fund of NZ$25 million to support the fast development of new products and services that could help to detect, diagnose, treat or prevent COVID-19.
The fund assists with research and development, prototyping and pre-production activities.
The fund, established in March, had paid NZ$6.75 million as at 6 May 2020. Projects funded included an antibodies test, a simple ventilator, and vaccine research.
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Granted funding to various COVID-19 research projects and clinical trials(...)Announced17/04/2020Policy details
The New Zealand Government and its Health Research Council provided funding to 13 studies to help respond to the current coronavirus outbreak and prepare New Zealand for future infectious diseases.
Three of the studies are clinical trials. One trial will test immune modulation treatments, anti-viral drugs such as hydroxychloroquine (currently used to treat autoimmune diseases like rheumatoid arthritis and lupus, or malaria) and lopinavir-ritonavir (currently used to treat HIV) for their effectiveness in critically ill COVID-19 patients.
A second trial will test the use of the same anti-virals in people unwell enough to need hospital admission but not intensive care.
The third trial will test the use of hydroxychloroquine in front-line healthcare workers.
A total of NZ$3.8 million was allocated across all the studies. The funding was allocated following a call for proposals made on 2 March 2020.
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Provided funding for COVID-19 research(...)Announced02/03/2020Policy details
The New Zealand Government provided funding for research responding to COVID-19 at a national and global level.
The Health Research Council and the Ministry of Health announced NZ$3 million in funding for research projects. The funding will be applied to rapid response research which can provide actionable evidence in the short-term (three to six months) to inform the all-of-government COVID-19 response.
Separately, the Health Research Council will fund research relating to COVID-19 that strengthens New Zealand’s research capacity and response to emerging infectious disease threats. The funding will be available for research across all fields of health and social science that can provide in the short to medium term, including projects up to two years long.
Saudi Arabia
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Launched an initiative for the manufacturing of ventilators(...)Announced09/04/2020Policy details
The Ministry of Health in collaboration with the engineers council launched an initiative for the manufacturing of ventilators in Saudi Arabia.
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Facilitated funding applications for COVID-19 research(...)Announced04/04/2020Policy details
One of the major research funding bodies; King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology (KACST) established a fast-tracked process for certain scientific research to combat novel Coronavirus pandemic, in collaboration with the Ministry of Health, the Saudi Health Council and the Saudi Center for Disease Prevention and Control (SaudiCDC).
The funding bodies will prioritize research ideas focusing on vaccine development, artificial intelligence and genetics. Furthermore, KACST will allow approved projects to utilize all KACST facilities and laboratories.
South Africa
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Funded research on COVID-19(...)Announced16/03/2020Policy details
The Department of Science and Innovation reallocated R4 million towards COVID-19 research and related projects.
The funds will assist in projects related to surveillance, therapeutic management, and understanding the local epidemiology of COVID-19 in Africa. Funds will also assist in establishing ethical and regulatory frameworks to facilitate research on COVID-19.
Thailand
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Funded digital startups to develop technology for COVID-19 response(...)Announced31/03/2020Policy details
B90 million to be allocated to 47 digital startups to develop national core technology in areas critical to virus response, including agriculture, education, finance, government services, tourism and healthcare.
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Joined multi-country research project for COVID-19 treatments(...)Announced18/03/2020Policy details
Thailand joined a multi-country partnership with the World Health Organisation to pursue clinical trials for potential treatments to COVID-19.
United Kingdom
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Launched vaccine development taskforce(...)Announced17/04/2020Policy details
The UK government launched a vaccine taskforce to expedite and co-ordinate efforts to research and produce a coronavirus vaccine.
21 new research projects will receive government funding from a £14 million pot.
The taskforce will be led by Chief Scientific Adviser Sir Patrick Vallance and Deputy Chief Medical Officer Professor Jonathan van Tam.
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Launched online survey for people with potential coronavirus symptoms(...)Announced04/04/2020Policy details
The UK Government created an online survey for people at home who thinks they may be displaying coronavirus symptoms.
The information gathered will assist the NHS to plan its response to the outbreak and provide insight into the development and progression of the virus across the country.
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Funded COVID-19 genome sequencing research(...)Announced23/03/2020Policy details
The UK Government provided £20million funding to a consortium of government agencies and research institutions conducting genome sequencing of UK samples of COVID-19.
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Provided grants for tech companies to develop assistance for people who are isolating(...)Announced23/03/2020Policy details
The UK Government will provide grants of £25,000 to technology companies to develop digital tools to support people who need help during the COVID-19 outbreak. Up to £500,000 will be paid in grants.
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Funded research for COVID-19 vaccines(...)Announced06/03/2020Policy details
The UK Government provided £20 to the Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations (CEPI) to develop new vaccines for COVID-19. The UK had previously given £30 million to CEPI.
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Funded research for COVID-19 diagnosis methods(...)Announced06/03/2020Policy details
The UK Government committed £5 million through the Joint Initiative on Research for Epidemic Preparedness in collaboration with Wellcome Trust to develop quicker diagnosis methods and perform other essential research for disease control.
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Provided funding for vaccine research(...)Announced03/02/2020Policy details
The UK Government announced £20 million to fund research into vaccines for coronavirus and other infectious diseases.
United States
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Funded vaccine research and development through HHS and NIAD(...)Announced06/03/2020Policy details
The U.S. Congress provided more than $2 billion for the Biomedical Advanced Research and Development Authority (BARDA) in the Department of Health and Human Services for the research and development of vaccines, therapeutics, and diagnostics, as part of phase 1 legislation.
The legislation also included $300 million in contingency funding for the purchase of vaccines, therapeutics, and diagnostics if necessary as deemed by the Secretary of Health and Human Services, and $836 million for research into vaccines, therapies, and diagnostics through the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID).
Vietnam
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Tested COVID-19 vaccine on mice(...)Announced03/05/2020Policy details
The Company for Vaccine and Biological Production No.1 (VABIOTECH) said it has tested COVID-19 vaccine on mice before further evaluation.
Dr. Do Tuan Dat, VABIOTECH President said the vaccine has been developed in collaboration with with scientists from the UK Bristol University since the very first COVID-19 infection case was confirmed in Viet Nam.
The company’s scientists successfully grew the COVID-19 antigen in the lab, which is the most important ingredient in vaccine production, Dat said. Blood samples from the animal will be sent to the National Institute of Hygiene and Epidemiology for further evaluation.
The vaccine will be further tested on animals to further evaluate the safety and immunization.
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Developed antibody diagnosis testing kit(...)Announced27/04/2020Policy details
The Central Institute of Hygiene and Epidemiology has been co-operating with Japan’s Nagasaki University to develop serological diagnostic bio-products by using the Elisa machine.
The country’s health system has plenty of Elisa machines available that had previously been purchased to diagnose dengue, HIV/AIDS, and immune diseases.
By utilising the bio-products in the Elisa machine, both the sensitivity and accuracy rate has risen to between 90% and 95% out of 100 cases. In contrast with other countries, the Republic of Korea's (RoK) rapid test kits have an accuracy of approximately 70% out of 100 cases.
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Funded research into COVID-19 detection(...)Announced07/02/2020Policy details
The National Council of Science and Technology is funding research into RT-PCR Biological Kit and Realtime RT-PCR to detect new strains of nCoV-2019 virus, research to manufacture fast detection system for nCoV screening, and research into the epidemiological and clinical characteristics of acute respiratory infections virus caused by nCoV virus.
The Central Institute of Hygiene and Epidemiology successfully cultured and isolated the coronavirus (nCoV) strain in the laboratory. This will facilitate rapid testing for the coronavirus infection and suspected cases.
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