The rate of the novel coronavirus infections in Egypt has continued to increase, prompting health authorities to check the treatment systems at state hospitals and the availability of drugs. Egypt has reported 95,666 cases, 53,779 recoveries and 5,035 deaths. Infections have been on the rise for five consecutive days after a drop in cases was reported for the past two months. Health Minister Hala Zayed stressed during a meeting with directors of hospitals in all Egyptian governorates the importance for all medical teams to adhere to the updated protocols regarding coronavirus treatments. She asked for reassurance on the availability of an adequate stock of medicines and medical supplies at all hospitals. According to an official statement, Zayed also reviewed the referral system of COVID-19 patients. Those infected or suspected of being infected are received in all state hospitals, and diagnosed. Patients showing mild symptoms are sent for home treatment, while those who need special care are sent to specialized coronavirus centers for isolation. Coordination takes place among all hospitals to refer cases according to an automated system, in order to facilitate the procedures for patients and speed up the process. Zayed stressed that authorities are in constant contact with international agencies that are carrying out COVID-19 vaccine trials, adding that the ministry will provide Egypt with these treatments as soon as they are available. Meanwhile, the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) donated 250 ventilators to Egypt for use in intensive care units, Minister of Investment and International Cooperation Rania al-Mashat announced on Sunday. “The donation of 250 ventilators to hospitals throughout Egypt represents the latest step in the joint efforts by Egypt and the US to fight COVID-19,” US Ambassador Jonathan Cohen was quoted as saying. “Early in the pandemic, Egypt generously provided the United States with a donation of personal protective equipment so our healthcare workers could stay safe. The innovation of American private industry has allowed us to return the favor today with these state-of-the-art, lifesaving devices,” he added.