When a case of monkeypox is suspected, the treating physician must promptly notify the nearest preventive center by phone and submit a written report. The report, labeled "Rash For Investigation," should indicate whether the case is suspected, probable, or confirmed. This report must then be sent to the nearest preventive health center for further action.

The preventive health physician at the hospital or preventive center must immediately inform the head of public health services in the region. The infectious disease notification form, along with the case details, is then forwarded to the contact officer in the Infectious Disease Control Department via phone or WhatsApp. This ensures that all relevant departments are aware and can take necessary actions.

For suspected monkeypox cases requiring hospitalization, the following steps must be taken:

The preventive physician completes the investigation form.

The patient is isolated in a designated room with strict infection prevention measures in place.

The physician monitors the final laboratory results.

If confirmed, the case is managed according to the established protocols.

Non-Hospitalized Cases

If hospitalization is deemed unnecessary:

The investigation form is still completed by the preventive physician.

The patient receives health education to ensure home isolation and adherence to infection prevention measures.

The physician continues to monitor laboratory results.

Upon confirmation, the case is managed as per the standard protocols.

Managing Contacts of Confirmed Cases

The guidelines emphasize the importance of managing contacts of confirmed monkeypox cases. The preventive physician at the center associated with the contact’s residence is responsible for identifying and monitoring all contacts. This includes daily follow-ups for 21 days, either in person or via phone, to check for symptoms such as fever.

Contacts are provided with health education, focusing on recognizing symptoms, understanding transmission methods, and maintaining hygiene. If any contact develops symptoms, they are referred to the hospital for further diagnosis and treatment. Should the contact be confirmed as infected, the standard procedures are followed.

The Ministry of Health's guidelines ensure a robust response to monkeypox, focusing on prompt reporting, thorough case management, and vigilant monitoring of contacts. These measures are crucial for containing the spread of the virus and protecting public health in Kuwait.

With the appearance of the Suhail star on the southern horizon of the Arabian Peninsula by Saturday, August 24, Kuwait's unusually hot weather is set to improve. The Suhail star, often referred to as the "noble star" or "bright star" in the region, signifies the end of summer.

As Suhail makes its appearance, Kuwait will experience a gradual moderation in weather conditions. The intense summer heat will give way to cooler temperatures, and the duration of daylight will shorten while nights will become longer.

The emergence of Suhail also marks the beginning of the farming season in Kuwait. This period is traditionally associated with the start of the rain season and the harvest of dates, which are crucial for the local agriculture.

As the region transitions into a milder climate, residents can expect more moderate temperatures and reduced daytime heat. This change is welcome news for both the farming community and the general population, offering relief from the intense summer conditions.

In exciting news for travelers, the Sri Lankan government has introduced visa-free entry for citizens from 35 countries, including India, the UK, and the US, starting October 1, 2024. This move aims to boost tourism and facilitate easier access to the stunning island nation.

Minister of Tourism Harin Fernando confirmed the new policy, stating, "This visa-free entry will be available for a period of six months," as reported by news agency PTI. This decision follows an interim order by the Supreme Court on August 2, which led to the suspension of the e-visa portal managed by IVS-GBS and VFS Global.

Previously, Indian travelers enjoyed a free visa extension that ended on May 31, 2024. Post this period, they had to apply for an e-visa or opt for a visa on arrival. With the e-visa service currently suspended, Indian travelers can still opt for the visa-on-arrival option until the new visa-free regime begins on October 1. The current visa fee stands at $50 (approximately Rs 4,197).

The new visa-free access will apply to travelers from a broad range of countries. The full list includes:

• Europe: UK, Germany, Netherlands, Belgium, Spain, France, Italy, Switzerland, Austria, Sweden
• Asia: India, China, US, Japan, Malaysia, Indonesia, South Korea, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, UAE, Nepal, Bahrain, Oman, Iran
• Others: Australia, Poland, Kazakhstan, Russia, Thailand, Canada, Czech Republic, Israel, Belarus, New Zealand

This initiative is expected to simplify travel arrangements and encourage more tourists to explore Sri Lanka's rich cultural heritage and natural beauty.

For the latest updates and details about travel policies, travelers are encouraged to check official sources or consult with travel agencies.

The PAM study highlights several critical changes aimed at increasing the employment of Kuwaitis in the private sector. One of the most significant proposals is the increase in fines for companies that fail to meet the mandated Kuwaitization rates. The penalty is set to rise from KD 100 to KD 300, emphasizing the government’s commitment to enforcing these quotas.

Sector-Specific Kuwaitization Quotas

- Oil Sector: The study proposes increasing the Kuwaitization rate in the oil sector to 50%, reflecting the sector's strategic importance to the national economy.

- Other Sectors: In other industries, the Kuwaitization rate could be raised to around 30%, ensuring a more significant presence of Kuwaiti employees across various economic areas.

Protecting Kuwaiti Workers in the Private Sector

To further support Kuwaiti workers, the study suggests imposing strict penalties on private companies that unjustifiably terminate national employees. These penalties may include suspending the company’s operational files, effectively halting their business activities.

Addressing Disparities Between Public and Private Sector Salaries

Another focus of the study is the disparity in salaries and job benefits between public and private sector workers. The government aims to narrow this gap to make private sector jobs more attractive to Kuwaiti citizens, thereby reducing the reliance on government employment.

Recent data from the Public Authority for Civil Information shows that as of mid-2024, there were approximately 404,900 Kuwaiti workers in the government sector, compared to 397,500 at the end of 2023. Meanwhile, the number of Kuwaitis employed in the private sector stood at about 72,800 by the end of June 2024. These figures underscore the ongoing challenges in shifting the workforce balance towards the private sector.

The increased fines and stricter regulations reflect Kuwait’s ongoing efforts to enforce Kuwaitization and ensure the integration of more Kuwaiti youth into the private sector. As these policies are implemented, the private sector must adapt to meet these new requirements, ensuring compliance and contributing to the nation’s economic goals.

The Higher Tenders Committee at Kuwait Petroleum Corporation (KPC) has taken a decisive step by banning the company responsible for the Mangaf property, where a tragic fire incident occurred in June, from participating in any tenders issued by KPC and its subsidiaries. This decision comes in the wake of a deadly incident that resulted in the loss of dozens of lives, primarily among Asian workers.

Background on the Mangaf Fire Incident

In June, a devastating fire broke out at the Mangaf property, leading to significant casualties and prompting an immediate investigation. The company involved, established in 1977, is recognized for its extensive experience in the field, operating across Kuwait and the Gulf region.

Banning Decision and Official Reactions

According to sources familiar with the committee's proceedings, the ban reflects the gravity of the situation. However, an official source from KPC expressed surprise at this move, noting that the Public Prosecution had only referred the company's case to the Investigations Department for further examination, which is set for the Misdemeanor Court, not the Criminal Court.

Kuwait Petroleum Corporation's Objectives

KPC is among the largest integrated oil and gas companies globally and aims to achieve significant goals, including:

Carbon Neutrality by 2050: Aligning with global environmental standards and improving sustainability practices.

Enhancing Quality of Life: Investing in community welfare and environmental initiatives.

Planet Care: Focusing on responsible resource management and environmental stewardship.

Impact on the Industry

This ban not only impacts the company involved but also sends a strong message to other firms about the consequences of negligence regarding safety and regulatory compliance. KPC’s commitment to safety and ethical standards is reinforced through this action.

Conclusion

The ban on the company linked to the Mangaf fire highlights Kuwait Petroleum Corporation's commitment to upholding safety and ethical practices within the industry. As investigations continue, the decision reflects KPC’s efforts to maintain high standards and protect the welfare of workers across the region.

In an era where digital privacy is more critical than ever, WhatsApp has introduced a revolutionary feature that could change the way we interact on the platform. The Meta-owned instant messaging giant is rolling out an advanced username feature, paired with optional PIN protection, designed to give users more control over their privacy and communication.

The WhatsApp username feature allows users to create a unique username that others can use to contact them on WhatsApp, without needing to share their phone number. This feature is part of WhatsApp’s continuous effort to enhance user privacy and security, making the platform safer and more user-friendly.

How Does It Work?

• Username Creation: Users can create a unique username that will serve as an identifier on WhatsApp. This username will be used for all new interactions, allowing users to keep their phone numbers private.
• PIN Protection: To prevent unauthorized sharing, WhatsApp offers an optional PIN protection for usernames. This PIN must be entered before the username can be shared with new contacts, adding an extra layer of security.

Why Is This Feature Important?

1. Enhanced Privacy: The new feature is especially beneficial for users who value their privacy. By using a username instead of a phone number, individuals can communicate freely without exposing their personal information.
2. Spam Reduction: As the feature requires users to share their username instead of their phone number, it significantly reduces the chances of receiving spam or unsolicited messages. This is a crucial step in curbing the spread of spam on the platform.
3. Control Over Contacts: Users now have the flexibility to choose who they interact with, as only those who have the username can initiate contact. This reduces the likelihood of unwanted communications and helps maintain a clean and secure contact list.

How to Set Up Your WhatsApp Username

1. Update Your App: Ensure that you have the latest version of WhatsApp installed.
2. Navigate to Settings: Open WhatsApp and go to the settings menu.
3. Create Your Username: Select the option to create a username. Make sure it’s unique and easy to remember.
4. Set Up Your PIN: For added security, set up a PIN that will be required to share your username with others.

Additional Benefits of WhatsApp Username

Cross-Platform Usability: This feature is available across all platforms where WhatsApp is supported, ensuring that users can maintain the same level of privacy, whether they are using Android, iOS, or web versions of WhatsApp.

Control Over Existing Contacts: Even though this feature primarily targets new interactions, existing contacts who already have your phone number will still see it. However, for all future interactions, you can opt to use your username, ensuring that your phone number remains private in new conversations.

Simple and User-Friendly: The process of creating and using a WhatsApp username is designed to be straightforward, ensuring that even users with minimal technical skills can take advantage of this feature.

Potential Challenges and User Feedback

While the feature is a significant step forward in privacy protection, it also comes with potential challenges. Users need to remember their PIN, and there may be a learning curve as people adjust to using usernames instead of phone numbers. However, early feedback from beta users has been overwhelmingly positive, with many praising the added layer of control and privacy it offers.

The Future of WhatsApp Usernames

As WhatsApp continues to roll out this feature globally, it is expected to set a new standard in privacy for messaging apps. The introduction of usernames is just the beginning, with further enhancements likely to follow, such as expanded privacy settings and additional security measures.

The WhatsApp username feature represents a significant shift in how users will manage their privacy on the platform. By enabling communication through usernames, WhatsApp is not only enhancing user privacy but also paving the way for a safer and more secure messaging experience.

Question:

My salary is 700 KD on my work permit. My wife is already in Kuwait and working on her company’s residency. I want to transfer her residency to a family visa under my sponsorship. Is this possible given that my salary is less than 800 KD? Does the new rule requiring a salary of 800 KD apply to those who are already in Kuwait?

Answer:

Yes, you can transfer your spouse's residency from a work visa to a family visa in Kuwait with a salary of less than 800 KD if your spouse is already residing in Kuwait. The new rule requiring a minimum salary of 800 KD primarily applies to new applications for family visas from individuals whose family members are outside of Kuwait.

Since your wife is already in Kuwait, the new 800 KD salary requirement does not apply to your case. You should be able to proceed with the transfer under the current regulations with your 700 KD salary. However, it is still advisable to consult with the immigration authorities to confirm that there have been no recent changes to the regulations or to determine if there are any specific requirements you need to fulfill.

Key Considerations:

• New Rule Enforcement: The 800 KD minimum salary requirement is enforced for new family visa applications from outside Kuwait.
• Existing Residents: Those who are already residing in Kuwait, like your wife, can transfer to a family visa without meeting the 800 KD salary requirement.
• Consultation Recommended: It is always a good idea to verify your eligibility directly with the immigration department to ensure you are up to date with any recent changes.

As regional tensions escalate, Kuwait's government is taking proactive steps to ensure the country's preparedness and stability. In response to directives from the Council of Ministers, various government agencies are implementing measures to address potential scenarios, secure essential services, and maintain business continuity. These efforts are focused on protecting the interests of both citizens and residents.

Sources confirm that Kuwait's strategic food stock remains secure and sufficient to meet the needs of the population. Authorities are concentrating on ensuring a continuous supply of food and enhancing food security and safety. This commitment is crucial given the exceptional circumstances currently impacting the region.

The government has mandated the implementation of emergency measures across different sectors. This includes close coordination with private sector entities, such as companies, institutions, and hospitals. These collaborations focus on maintaining the strategic stock of food and medicine and strengthening cooperation between public and private sectors.

During a meeting on August 6, the Council of Ministers received updates from ministers on the precautionary measures being undertaken by relevant government agencies. Each agency is working within its area of responsibility to ensure that all necessary steps are taken to protect the nation and its people.

As the new academic year approaches, the Ministry of Education in Kuwait is taking proactive measures to ensure a healthy environment for students across all educational levels. A significant part of this initiative involves regulating the food offered in school canteens.

The Ministry has approved a selection of nutritious food items, such as juices, pies, milk, sandwiches, various types of biscuits, crackers, salads, and fruits, for sale in school cafeterias. However, to promote healthier eating habits among students, seven specific food items have been banned. These include soft drinks, canned juices, sports drinks, energy drinks, and certain processed foods.

List of Prohibited Foods

The General Authority for Food and Nutrition, in collaboration with the Ministry, has outlined the following list of banned food items in school canteens:

All types of soft drinks

All canned fruit juices

Sports drinks and energy drinks

Chewing gum, lollipops, candy, and sweets

French fries and processed meats, such as sausages

Pickles, mayonnaise, and fatty sauces

Strict Standards for Approved Food Items

To ensure the highest quality and safety, the Ministry has approved 14 food companies to supply items that meet the stringent standards set by the General Authority for Food and Nutrition. These standards emphasize the importance of fresh, healthy food options for students. For instance, milk products, sandwiches, pies, and pastries must be delivered fresh on the day they are made. Additionally, items that have passed more than half of their shelf life or are packaged in damaged containers are not allowed. Glass containers are also prohibited in school cafeterias.

In preparation for the upcoming school year, the Ministry’s Educational Facilities Sector has instructed its engineering teams to ensure that all school facilities are ready by early September. This comprehensive approach aims to provide students with a smooth and healthy start to their academic journey.

The issue of housemaids fleeing their employers has become a growing concern in Kuwait, disrupting the daily lives of many citizens. This problem is often linked to fraudulent labor recruitment offices and brokers who entice domestic workers with promises of better-paying jobs in various sectors, including restaurants, cafés, and gyms.

Lawyers in Kuwait have emphasized the importance of taking immediate action when a housemaid absconds. The first step involves filing an absence report and consulting the Labor Recruitment Department at the Public Authority for Manpower (PAM). If the housemaid has been employed for less than six months, the recruitment office is obligated to refund the recruitment fees and cover the cost of return tickets. Additionally, citizens have the legal right to file a civil lawsuit seeking damages of up to KD500.

Security authorities have issued stern warnings against sheltering or employing runaway housemaids, as these individuals often violate Residency and Labor laws. Citizens and residents who provide refuge or conceal the whereabouts of these workers could face legal consequences. Cooperation with security agencies is crucial in addressing this issue, authorities have stressed.

In response to this ongoing problem, PAM has established a clear mechanism to handle cases where domestic workers leave their employers without notice. The procedure begins with filing an absence report at one of the Ministry of Interior’s citizens service centers. This is followed by lodging a complaint with the Department of Regulating the Recruitment of Domestic Workers at PAM. If the maid has been employed for less than six months, the recruitment office is required to compensate the employer. For cases where the sponsorship period has ended, the matter is referred to the judiciary to determine responsibility for compensation and the cost of the return ticket.

PAM and security sources have also cautioned against engaging with unlicensed recruitment agencies that promote hourly-paid domestic workers through various media, including social networking sites. These operations are often scams, and employers are advised to only deal with agencies approved by the Ministry of Interior. A joint team from the Residency Affairs Investigation General Department and the Residency Affairs General Department is actively monitoring and taking legal action against those behind fraudulent advertisements.

The Ministry of Education (MoE) in Kuwait has recently integrated a new ‘scan’ function into its official mail and correspondence system, specifically designed to streamline the verification of employee tasks. This innovative feature allows employees assigned to official tasks to bypass the traditional fingerprint attendance system, as their attendance is automatically recorded through the new system during the completion of these tasks. This integration with administrative and financial operations ensures a seamless process for tracking and managing official assignments.

According to educational sources, the new system includes several core functions, such as scanning official documents and uploading them to an electronic system. This allows for easy retrieval and search of documents when needed. Moreover, the system is designed to send notifications via e-mail or text messages, informing employees of any new tasks or updates to their assigned duties. This automated feature not only improves task management but also ensures that employees remain informed and updated on their responsibilities.

The integration of the ‘scan’ feature with the attendance system is a significant advancement. Employees no longer need to use the fingerprint attendance device while performing official tasks, as their attendance status is updated automatically. This update provides a more efficient way to manage attendance, particularly for employees who are frequently engaged in official duties outside the office. The system also allows for real-time follow-up on task completion, ensuring that all assignments are tracked and verified promptly.

In addition to the new task management feature, the Ministry of Education, in collaboration with the Public Authority for Food and Nutrition (PAFN), has approved a list of healthy foods permitted to be sold in school cafeterias. The approved list includes items such as brown bread sandwiches with natural ingredients like vegetables and cheese, natural juices without added sugars, and low-fat milk enriched with calcium and vitamins.

The ministry has also outlined specific food and drink items that are prohibited in school cafeterias. These include soft drinks, energy drinks, high-sugar sweets, fried foods, and fast food. The ministry has signed contracts with local companies specializing in providing healthy food options, ensuring strict adherence to quality and safety standards for foods sold in schools.

Dr. Abdulrahman Al-Mutairi, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Health, and Dr. Al-Mundhir Al-Hassawi, Assistant Undersecretary for Public Health Affairs, recently visited the Kuwait Center for Disease Prevention and Control. This inspection aimed to assess progress, review health monitoring efforts, and enhance preventive measures to ensure Kuwait’s readiness for emerging health threats.

During their visit, Dr. Al-Mutairi reviewed current plans for monitoring global health developments, particularly in light of the recent "global health emergency" declaration due to monkeypox outbreaks worldwide. He praised the dedication of the center's staff and emphasized the importance of inter-sectoral cooperation to address potential health threats effectively. Dr. Al-Mutairi confirmed that the ministry is taking all necessary precautions to safeguard the health of both citizens and expatriates and is committed to supporting the center’s efforts to maintain high operational efficiency.

Dr. Al-Mundhir Al-Hassawi highlighted that the center's monitoring teams are actively tracking global epidemiological trends and maintaining communication with international health organizations to stay updated on developments. Dr. Ahmad Al-Mutawa, Director of the Infection Prevention Department, assured that Kuwait’s health system is well-prepared to manage monkeypox cases if they arise. He noted that Kuwait has robust systems for testing, diagnosis, and treatment, including available vaccines.

Difference Between Monkeypox and COVID-19

In an interview with Kuwait TV, Dr. Al-Mutawa explained that handling monkeypox differs significantly from dealing with COVID-19. Unlike COVID-19, which posed unprecedented challenges due to lack of prior knowledge, monkeypox is a well-understood virus with established diagnostic methods, treatments, and vaccines. He emphasized that Kuwait’s health infrastructure is strong and capable of effectively managing monkeypox, should it enter the country.

Kuwait’s proactive measures and comprehensive preparedness strategies position its health system to effectively confront the monkeypox virus. The Ministry of Health’s ongoing efforts ensure that Kuwait remains equipped with the necessary resources and expertise to handle any emerging health challenges.

In a significant move to modernize and streamline employee attendance tracking, the Director General of Kuwait Municipality, Eng. Saud Al-Dubous, has mandated the implementation of a new mobile application. This app will allow municipal employees to record their fingerprints via their smartphones, effectively verifying their presence during official working hours.

 Through an administrative circular recently issued by Al-Dubous, the Finance and Administration Sector has been instructed to incorporate this mobile fingerprint verification system. This innovation is expected to enhance efficiency and accuracy in tracking employee attendance, ensuring that municipal employees comply with their designated working hours.

 This initiative reflects Kuwait Municipality's commitment to embracing digital solutions that improve operational efficiency. By enabling fingerprint verification through mobile phones, the municipality is taking a proactive step toward reducing administrative overhead and enhancing workforce management.

In a bid to enhance road safety and curb reckless driving, Kuwait’s Ministry of Interior has launched a new patrol system equipped with cutting-edge radar technology. This initiative aims to catch violators and enforce traffic laws more effectively, marking a significant step towards safer public roads in the country.

The new radar-equipped patrols represent a significant upgrade in Kuwait’s traffic enforcement capabilities. According to a report by Al-Jarida Arabic newspaper, the Operations Department recently conducted a field test of these advanced patrols across various ring roads and expressways. The results were impressive, with numerous traffic violations detected and offenders swiftly apprehended.

During the trial, traffic police successfully impounded 85 vehicles for speeding and seized 4 vehicles involved in illegal street racing. Additionally, two motorcycles were confiscated for driving without license plates and helmets. These violations were caught quickly and unexpectedly, thanks to the advanced radar system, which caught offenders off guard.

The deployment of this new radar system is expected to have a significant impact on road safety in Kuwait. By making it harder for drivers to evade detection, the Ministry of Interior is sending a strong message that reckless driving will not be tolerated. This is likely to lead to a decrease in traffic violations and a safer driving environment for all road users.

The Kuwait Direct Investment Promotion Authority (KDIPA) has announced new regulations aimed at enhancing the investment climate for foreign investors in Kuwait. The updated guidelines provide a clear framework for foreign investment entities to access various benefits and exemptions, including tax incentives and customs duty relief, under Kuwait's Law No. 116 of 2013.

According to Article One of the new decision, foreign investors can apply for an investment license and access benefits as outlined in Law No. 116 of 2013. To qualify, investors must meet specific criteria established by KDIPA’s evaluation mechanism, which governs the approval process for license applications and associated benefits.

Article Two specifies that investment entities operating in Kuwait for a minimum of one year under Law No. 116 of 2013 can request additional benefits and exemptions. To qualify, these entities must adhere to KDIPA’s evaluation mechanism, submit periodic reports demonstrating their commitment to approved work plans, and provide a comprehensive business plan detailing their achievements and future objectives. The exemptions will be effective from the application submission date, provided all necessary documentation and fees are completed. However, it’s important to note that the exemption does not apply retroactively to taxes or customs duties already paid.

Article Three introduces special provisions for investment entities seeking benefits and exemptions, either concurrently with or after obtaining their investment license. It clarifies that exemptions do not extend to ongoing contracts or projects with bids submitted before the application date, even if these contracts are later transferred to another entity. Additionally, entities must maintain separate financial accounts for their licensed investments, distinct from other contracts.

Article Four outlines that investment companies involved in Kuwait’s offset program are not eligible for benefits and exemptions under Law No. 116 of 2013 during the commitment period. This exclusion ensures that the offset obligations are fulfilled without benefiting from the investment incentives.

Kuwait offers numerous advantages to foreign investors through KDIPA’s law, including the ability to establish a wholly-owned Kuwaiti company, tax incentives for up to ten years, exemptions from customs duties, and land allocation for projects. Additional benefits include protection against seizure or confiscation without adequate compensation, the freedom to transfer capital and profits, and the avoidance of double taxation under bilateral agreements. Licensed investment entities may also gain classification by the Central Agency for Public Tenders based on their global experience and are permitted to employ necessary foreign labor in line with national labor requirements.

These new regulations by KDIPA are designed to attract more foreign investment to Kuwait by providing clear, structured guidelines for obtaining and maximizing available benefits. By outlining the requirements and ensuring transparency in the process, Kuwait aims to solidify its position as an attractive destination for international investors.

Kuwait is considering a significant shift in its fuel pricing policy that could lead to higher gasoline prices for expatriates and businesses. The proposed changes may exclude Kuwaiti citizens with driving licenses, focusing on reforming subsidies to better target those in need. The government's study of these potential reforms aims to ensure a more equitable distribution of fuel subsidies.

The possible liberalization of gasoline prices is part of a broader effort to adjust Kuwait’s fuel subsidy system. These changes could see expatriates and companies paying more for fuel, aligning with global pricing trends. Meanwhile, Kuwaiti citizens with valid driving licenses may be shielded from these increases, maintaining the current subsidy levels.

Should the reforms take place, expatriates and companies could face higher operational costs due to increased fuel prices. This adjustment would align Kuwait with other Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries that have already moved towards market-based fuel pricing, reducing the financial burden on government subsidies.

The Kuwaiti government is exploring various models to ensure that fuel subsidies are more effectively targeted. By potentially excluding Kuwaiti citizens from price hikes, the government aims to protect the local population while encouraging more efficient energy use among expatriates and businesses.

As Kuwait moves forward with its study of fuel subsidy reforms, the outcomes could have far-reaching implications for both the local and expatriate communities. The government’s focus on better targeting subsidies reflects a commitment to economic sustainability and fairness in resource distribution.

In a significant move to enhance community services, the Ministry of Interior, through a joint effort by the General Department of Criminal Evidence and the General Department of Information Systems, will launch a new service on Sunday, August 18, 2024. This service aims to facilitate biometric fingerprinting for bedridden individuals and those with moderate to severe disabilities, including mental disabilities, directly at their locations.

This initiative reflects the Ministry of Interior’s ongoing commitment to improving access to essential government services for people with special needs and bedridden individuals. By providing this service directly at their locations, the Ministry aims to ensure that these individuals can complete necessary procedures without facing undue hardship.

To streamline the process, the Ministry has provided a dedicated WhatsApp number (94458124) for submitting all required health-related documents. Once the documents are received, individuals will be contacted to schedule an appointment for the biometric fingerprinting procedure.

In addition to this new service, the Ministry of Interior has announced an extension of the fingerprinting deadline for all citizens until September 30, 2024, and for residents until December 31, 2024. After these deadlines, transactions for any citizen or resident who has not completed the biometric fingerprinting will be halted.

The Ministry of Interior’s introduction of this biometric fingerprinting service is a crucial step towards ensuring that all members of the community, especially those with special needs and bedridden individuals, have easy access to essential services. The extension of the fingerprinting deadlines further demonstrates the Ministry's dedication to accommodating the needs of all citizens and residents.

The Ministry of Health (MOH) has announced its active monitoring of the recent monkeypox outbreak in several African countries. This follows the designation of the outbreak as a "global health emergency" and the identification of a new strain of the virus.

The MOH is collaborating with the Gulf Center for Disease Prevention and the World Health Organization (WHO) to stay abreast of the situation and implement appropriate measures. The Kuwait Center for Disease Prevention and Control (Kuwait CDC) is working diligently with all relevant parties to enhance national efforts to prevent and manage infectious diseases, as reported by Al Qabas.

Monkeypox, or Empox, is a viral disease with two primary subtypes. It is characterized by a rash, blisters, and mucosal lesions, along with symptoms such as fever, headache, muscle pain, weakness, and swollen lymph nodes.

The disease can spread through physical contact with an infected person, including sexual contact, kissing, or direct touch. Respiratory secretions can also transmit the virus. Diagnosis is confirmed through a polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test. Treatment generally involves supportive care to alleviate symptoms, though antivirals may be used in certain cases.

To prevent monkeypox, the Ministry advises maintaining good hand hygiene, using soap and water or alcohol-based sanitizers, avoiding sexual promiscuity, and steering clear of physical contact with symptomatic individuals. Travelers to countries with reported cases are also encouraged to exercise caution.

The Ministry of Health will continue to provide regular updates on the situation. It wishes the public good health and safety.