While most of us have been binge-watching shows to wait out the Covid-19 crisis, an inventor in southern Myanmar has come up with a way to safely transport suspected coronavirus patients.
Kai Zar from Myeik township in Tanintharyi region told state-run newspaper The Mirror that he modified a truck because other ambulances and transport vehicles looked unsafe for the driver.
Kai Zar strapped an air conditioner to the back of the vehicle in order to ventilate the air and remove the smell of disinfectant, he explained.
Underneath the air conditioner is (what appears to be) a small generator on wheels while the back, which holds four plastic chairs, is boxed off with steel plates to contain the virus, said the inventor.
Covid-19 signage at the top of the truck makes its purpose clear and transparent screens ensure suspected patients can wave at their neighbours on the way to the hospital.
“To protect everyone being transported, to prevent transmission, and to prevent further spread of the virus, I’ve brought my expectations to life with this vehicle,” said Kai Zar, who owns a refrigerator and air-conditioner repair shop.
Local officials inspected the vehicle on March 29, reported the newspaper, and, though they suggested some changes, Kai Zar said the truck has got the go-ahead for official use.
The modification cost just over three million kyats (US$2,160), he said.
“As soon as there is an alert of a suspected case in Myeik, in 24 hours the person will be picked up and taken to the hospital,” he added.
“If the person can walk, I will open the door for them and as soon as they get in, I will shut the door and transport them safely. I will be fully suited in protective gear and will follow the guidelines endorsed by the Ministry of Health and Sports.
“I’m happy [the ministry] see it as in a state fit for operation. I will also be improving on the details they suggested I fix.”
No Covid-19 cases have been confirmed in Tanintharyi region, with the country’s 10 patients identified in Yangon, Mandalay, Naypyidaw, and Chin state.
