"Unity" rather than "divisions" or other controversies over "masks and respirators". The French president spoke on Wednesday evening at the end of his visit to the military field hospital in Mulhouse (Haut-Rhin).
No announcement has been made on the likely extension of the containment, but Emmanuel Macron unveiled a number of measures in the "war" against Covid-19, "this invisible enemy."
"A massive investment and career enhancement plan" for the hospital
Emmanuel Macron first paid tribute to the hospital staff. He asked for "a clear and strong response" from the government regarding the granting of an "exceptional bonus" and the increase in overtime. In addition, he promises "at the end of this crisis" the establishment of "a massive investment plan and career enhancement".
While critics are raining down on the absence of a massive screening policy in the territory, he also announces that the daily number of tests would greatly increase. From 5,000 today, the system should soon pass to "29,000" according to the Head of State. This number should be reached "within ten days", according to the Director General of Health, Jérôme Salomon. Nursing homes and caregivers should benefit as a priority. By way of comparison, Germany currently performs 12,000 tests per day.
Finally, medical personnel will soon be able to request a telephone number in order to heal the psychological wounds generated by this "disaster" medicine. "I measure what you are taking as stress, as workload, and you have accomplished a remarkable job", thanked Emmanuel Macron.
The army mobilized for "Operation Resilience"
Distinct from Operation Sentinel, this new military mission will be devoted to "helping and supporting the population" in "health, logistics and protection". The Head of State notably announced the availability of "two helicopter carriers [...] in support of overseas territories".
"A conference with the social partners" for the other essential professions
Cashiers, letter carriers, plumber, liberal nurse ... Emmanuel Macron also praised the efforts of all these French people who continue their activities outside. A meeting will be organized on Friday with the social partners on this subject to "better protect at work".
Many professionals report shortages of masks, hydroalcoholic gel or gloves. And feel “forced to go to work”.
His opinion on chloroquine
"I only want one thing, that it works, but I don't know. It must remain in a medical protocol, "also said Emmanuel Macron in the afternoon about this controversial treatment.
Hydroxychloroquine is recommended by several doctors, including Professor Didier Raoult, director of the Institut hospitalo universitaire Universitaire Infection, to treat patients with coronavirus. Its use nevertheless divides the medical world, the effectiveness of this antimalarial being still under scientific evaluation.
Political Newsletter
Every day, political news seen by Le ParisienI'm registering
Your email address is collected by Le Parisien to allow you to receive our news and commercial offers. Find out more
Coronavirus in Mulhouse: at the heart of the military hospital soon to be operational
