COVID-19: DHA's WhatsApp helpline receives over 54,800 requests

Wednesday, 30 September 2020 20:20

By Sanooj Sherif

The Dubai Health Authority's (DHA) COVID-19 helpline service on WhatsApp is proving to be a big hit with the public.

It handled as many as 54,881 queries and requests between April and September.

The automated 24|7 service is playing a major role in raising awareness about the virus and the precautionary measures, in addition to tackling rumours.

Some of the most-asked questions on the WhatsApp service are Am I eligible for a Coronavirus test and what is the procedure to get the test?, followed by Can I get a Coronavirus medical certificate? and the third one being I suspect that there is a sick person with Coronavirus, what do I do?

"We wanted a system that would respond to patients’ queries on time and to give people a credible channel to receive accurate information. The system provides users with an opportunity to learn more about the virus, get UAE statistics and even find out if they are eligible for a coronavirus test," said Fatma Al Khaja, Director of the DHA's Customer Happiness Department.

The hotline, which handles multiples languages can be accessed by adding 800 342 to the phone contacts and sending 'Hi' on WhatsApp.

More from Local News

UAE waives residency and visa fines for Sudanese nationals

Sudanese nationals in the UAE will be exempt from paying outstanding residency or visa fines under a move by the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs & Port Security (ICP) to help them regularise their stay.
Sheikh Abdullah welcomes ceasefire between India and Pakistan

Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, has welcomed the ceasefire between India and Pakistan, expressing hope that it contributes to enhancing security and stability in the region.
UAE outlines two years of peace diplomacy for Sudan

The UAE has outlined its "sincere efforts" over the last two years to seek a civilian-led political solution in Sudan that protects innocents from "tragedy and humanitarian suffering".
UAE airlines extend flight suspensions to Pakistan

UAE airlines have extended the suspension of flights to and from Pakistan, some until Tuesday, May 13, as the country shut its airspace due to cross-border tensions with India.
Turkey honours Fatima bint Mubarak with 'Order of the Republic'

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan has conferred the "Order of the Republic" title on UAE'S Mother f the Nation, H.H. Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak, for her outstanding humanitarian and social contributions in the region and around the world.
Abu Dhabi shuts four health facilities over sick leave scam

Abu Dhabi’s Department of Health has shut down four healthcare facilities for issuing false sick leave certificates in exchange for money.
Dubai Police recover stolen supplies before owner notices theft

Dubai’s Al Raffa Police Station has returned AED 123,000 worth of stolen medical supplies to a shop owner, who had no idea the items were even missing.
New regulation boosts Abu Dhabi’s response to environmental emergencies

Abu Dhabi is taking stronger action to protect the environment by introducing a regulation focused on environmental emergency preparedness and response.