Egypt’s Health Ministry announced Saturday that it will launch an automated response service through WhatsApp to answer any inquiries regarding the novel coronavirus outbreak.
The ministry’s spokesperson Khaled Megahed explained that this free service aims to provide citizens with answers to the most important questions regarding the outbreak.
Delivered by the Health Ministry, this WhatsApp service will become a central source for accurate, reliable, and constantly updated information about the outbreak, he said, providing quick responses to everyone residing in Egypt.
Megahed said that once a user saves number 01553105105 as a contact on their mobile phone or uses this link, they can start the service by sending ‘Hi’ through a text message on WhatsApp.
After that, a list of options will appear from which the user can choose and receive the necessary instructions from the Health Ministry, in addition to links to the ministry’s social media for more information.
The service includes information on prevention against the coronavirus, the latest statistics of infections in the country, tips on staying at home, navigation tips, and answers to common questions.
He added that this service was built through the global Infobip communications platform with the WhatsApp application as it allows bilateral talks, so messages are sent to anyone who activates this service – alongside directing them to other online sources for more information.
Egypt on Friday confirmed 17 additional deaths and 95 new coronavirus cases, bringing the country’s number of confirmed total cases so far to 1,794. Hundred and thirty-five people have died from the virus in Egypt.
The Egyptian government on Wednesday extended its nationwide curfew until April 23 as part of its precautionary measures to limit the spread of coronavirus.
Egyptian Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouly said that all measures regarding the closure of stores, the suspension of air traffic, the continued closure of schools, and the reduction of employees in state-owned companies will continue during this period.
The measures also include the suspension of schools and universities across the country, as well as the closure of all cafes, bars, cafeterias, and restaurants nationwide.
Flights will be also suspended during this period, as will cultural activities, traffic department services, and work at notary offices.
