In order to support the Palestinian General Administration for Borders and Crossings during the global fight against COVID-19, as well the fight against infectious diseases more widely, the Head of the European Union border assistance Mission, EUBAM Rafah, Guenther Freisleben decided to reallocate existing funds at short notice in order to donate a portable rapid deployable thermal imaging fever system. 

“The equipment we are donating should be useful in the fight against the novel COVID-19 virus, and also in helping prevent the spread of other diseases such as Ebola, Noroviruses, Avian or Swine Flu,” stated Mr. Freisleben.

The thermal imaging system, formally known as the WG520 was installed on 8 April 2020 at Al Karamah Crossing, the main crossing point between Jordan and the West Bank. The special device is connected with the Command and Control Centre (CCC) and the Mobile Clinic (both donated by EUBAM) where health workers from Ministry of Health are deployed. 

"Fever screening systems help border and customs officials to identify from a distance whether travellers have an above normal body temperature and may consequently be suffering from an infectious disease which may be brought across the border. This chosen solution is perfectly in line with the integrated approach on border security," said Florin Bulgariu, Integrated Border Management Expert at EUBAM Rafah.

“Importantly, this equipment serves as a primary screening which entails little or no inconvenience for those being screened. This aspect will be particularly useful when things get back to ‘business as usual," the EUBAM expert concluded. 

Background: Established in 2005, the EU Border Assistance Mission for the Rafah Crossing Point works with 16 staff on developing an efficient and accountable Palestinian borders and crossings administration in line with international standards. The Mission focuses on building the capacity of the Palestinian border authorities through the sharing of European best-practices.

The civilian CSDP Missions do not have a humanitarian aid mandate, but are security actors. Within their means they provide currently specific advice and – where possible – donate medical and protective equipment.