Athletes, visitors assured of health standards

Athletes and visitors to Laos can be assured of the highest standard of hygiene and sanitation in Vientiane 's hotels and restaurants during the SEA Games.

Three medical units have been formed by the Ministry of Health to manage a number of health related issues. One team will be on hand for any medical emergency, another will be responsible for checking on the hygiene of public places and hospitality venues, and the third team will be the anti-doping and drug abuse unit.

After a meeting of ministry and other health officials Deputy Minister of Health Professor Dr Eksavang Vongvichit said they will be presenting certificates to hotels and restaurants that meet their strict health and hygiene standards.

There are currently 31 hotels that meet the standard and they will receive certificates from the Ministry of Health.

Twenty-eight hotels failed to meet the standard and have been advised on the areas they need to improve.

Dr Eksavang said guests can be assured of the standard of food and its preparation at restaurants and hotels that have certificates.

Health department officials will continue checking the hotels.

Nineteen guesthouses have also passed and will receive certificates from the department next month.

So far 16 restaurants have passed their checks and will receive certificates next month.

A department official said they will check another 626 restaurants in seven districts of Vientiane .

The certificate and sign each establishment is entitled to display says “Good Environment, Good Service, Safe Food, Good Health”.

The officials expect to complete their inspections and issue certificates next month.

Medical units will also be set up at all sporting venues and the SEA Games Village . Trainers in the 25 sports have already received instruction in the treatment of sporting injuries.

 

By Sangkhomsay Bubphanouvong
September 25, 2009

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