Coronavirus: Moroccan researchers develop facemasks & shields
As necessity is the mother of invention a team of Moroccan researchers of the Rabat International University has developed face shields that can be worn by doctors and nurses to protect themselves while treating coronavirus patients.
The Moroccan scientists have also produced “more durable FFP masks” to replace disposable masks. These two new facemasks and shields are currently undergoing rigorous tests to prove their efficiency and safety before going into mass production and hitting the market.
Several Moroccan textile factories are now producing facemasks with a view of reaching a production capacity of 2.5 million masks. These masks will help protect health workers, security staff and will be available in the market for all citizens.
The government of the North African Kingdom has voiced its readiness to support SMEs willing to produce personal protective gear essential to fight coronavirus pandemic.
In this connection, Maroc PME has just launched a financial support program for small and medium-sized enterprises investing in the manufacture of products and equipment necessary for the fight against the Covid-19 pandemic.
The call for projects, “Imtiaz-Technologies”, aims at supporting Moroccan MSEs wishing to invest in the manufacture of products and equipment used to limit the negative effects of the coronavirus on the national economy.
Maroc PME will provide financial support up to 30% of the total amount of the investment, capped at 10 million dirhams for SMEs and 1.5 million dirhams for very small businesses.
As Morocco witnessed a shortage of many medical devices and hygiene products, the investments target particularly the manufacturing of medical equipment, first aid kits, hygiene products (sanitizing and hydroalcoholic gels etc.), personal protective equipment (facemasks, medical bibs, sterile gowns, etc.), sterilization equipment…
In 24 hours, 71 new cases of Covid-19 infection were confirmed in Morocco, bringing the total number of contamination cases to 534, announced the Ministry of Health this Monday, March 30 at 6:00 p.m.
The Ministry of Health has also recorded 7 deaths in 24 hours, bringing the official death toll to 33 deaths. Meanwhile, 14 patients have recovered since the outbreak of the epidemic in Morocco.
Worldwide public health officials continue to advise people to stay home, abide by social distancing and personal hygiene to help prevent the spread of the deadly Covid-19.
