Director of Communications Fahrettin Altun shared a video explaining the steps taken against coronavirus (Covid-19) by Turkey to protect the individuals in the risk group.
In his post shared on his Twitter account, Altun said, “Instead of taking draconian measures or ignoring the problem, Turkey relies on its robust health care system and talented medics to stop the pandemic.”
Indicating that Turkey supplied test kits to friends and allies, Altun commented, “No virus is more durable than the measures we take.”
It was noted in the video Altun shared that according to data compiled since the beginning of the pandemic older adults and people with underlying health conditions were at higher risk of death, and the video continued as follows:
“It saddens us to see many European countries take measures that fail to provide extra protection for their senior citizens. While some EU countries have decided to take draconian measures, others seem to contend on letting the pandemic run its course amongst the population. Unfortunately, these methods do not address the needs of older adults and continue to place their lives at risk, which is unacceptable.”
The measures taken by Turkey for its citizens in the risk group were noted in the post as follows:
“Turkey has a robust public health system, a high capacity of ICU beds and ventilators, as well as highly trained hospital staff and locally made coronavirus testing kits to provide senior citizens with the best medical care.
The government has also taken precautions and measures primarily aimed at protecting its elders. Turkey took quick action by giving older adults administrative leave from work, removing them from high-risk environments. Citizens above the age of 65 are also being provided with medical masks and disinfectants.
The government has also provided extra financial support for retired citizens, increasing minimum pension payments and providing a bonus pension payment in April 2020. We understand that this period of social distancing and isolation can be difficult for many senior citizens. The Turkish government will also provide medical and social services to citizens 80 years and older at their homes.’’
Emphasizing that the world was faced with a difficult period due to coronavirus, the video said, “Turkey is prepared to meet this challenge head on and provide the necessary support to all its citizens, young and old. No virus is more durable than the measures we have prepared to take.”