Cairo: A Bahraini lawmaker has tested positive for the new coronavirus, prompting health authorities to do testing for other members of the parliament, local media said.
Head of the Council of Representatives Fawzia Zainal had to adjourn the chamber’s session on Tuesday due to a lack of quorum after MP Bassim Al Malki’s infection was confirmed, Akhbar Al Khaleej reported.
“A team from the Health Ministry was summoned after an absent member tested positive for coronavirus. Medical tests were done for all deputies and the council’s staff to ensure safety of everyone,” Rashid Mohammed, the secretary-general of the chamber, said.
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More than 10 members of the 40-strong council were requested to go into home isolation as a precaution after they came in contact with the sick lawmaker, Akhbar Al Khaleej reported.
The assembly’s staff were, meanwhile, notified to leave the place early to allow for disinfection efforts, it added.
The parliament’s work continues as normal with an online meeting due Wednesday with the government to discuss the state budget, sources said.