The UAE has launched a “virtual doctor” to help people with diagnosing any symptoms that could be idiosyncratic to the coronavirus. The country’s Ministry of Health and Prevention is behind this initiative that shows the country’s involvement in tech and artificial intelligence.
The “COVID 19 Virtual Doctor” is a bot that asks the user/patient multiple-choice questions, in relation to where in the UAE they live, symptoms, travel history, etc.
For instance, one main question asks users to disclose if they have recently travelled to or transited via Hong Kong, China, Italy, Spain, France, Germany, USA, Republic of Korea, Netherlands, Switzerland, Japan, Norway, Belgium, Bahrain, Austria or Kuwait – specifically within the last 14 days of them taking the medical quiz.
Contact virtual doctor through the link below if you have symptoms of #coronavirus. https://t.co/xd9njeCZ8g#Covid19@mohapuae#UAE_Portal
— حكومة الامارات الذكية (@UAEmGov) March 18, 2020
Other medical questions include whether any symptoms such as fever, cough, and shortness of breath were felt. If the user has met a particular criterion, which means they may have contracted the virus, the bot will ask the user to provide contact details so that medical assistance can reach them ASAP. Not only is the COVID-19 Virtual Doctor assessing those with the novel coronavirus, but can also discuss other potential ailments for which the bot can provide a possible diagnosis or medical recommendations. “I’m not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a medical professional for serious symptoms or emergencies," read the service.
Aside from the brand new doctor, the UAE has been implementing other measures to tackle the global pandemic. Official government bodies have asked people to avoid large social gatherings including parties and weddings and the cosmopolitan city of Dubai has suspended the operation of cinemas, night clubs, concerts and entertainment parks.
Dubai has decided to close down all major common areas including malls. Malls here have all the amenities for people to get simple things like groceries to pharmacy needs. Luckily, the delivery system here is picking up to assure all residents their needs. #lockdown pic.twitter.com/n9Y8UZBjmZ
— Hina Chaudhry (@HinaMChaudhry) March 16, 2020
Thermal cameras have now been installed at the entrances of grocery stores and malls across the country to identify individuals who could have a high fever and stop them from entering those public spaces.
