Staff Reporter

In a move that is aimed at curbing the spread of the pandemic in schools, the Government has extended the COVID-19 vaccination to the 12 to 15 age group.

Addressing a post-cabinet media briefing in Harare yesterday, Acting Minister of Information Publicity and Broadcasting Services, Dr Jorum Gumbo gave an update on the status of COVID-19 in schools.

“As of 21 February, 2022, Zimbabwe’s cumulative COVID-19 cases stood at 233 352, with 224 940 recoveries and 5 386 deaths. The recovery rate stood at 96%, with 929 active cases having been recorded,” said Dr Gumbo.

“The following areas recorded the most significant number of new cases, Masvingo (642); Manicaland (402); Mashonaland East (280); and Matabeleland North (191).

“During the week under review, 145 learners in 38 schools tested positive for COVID-19, while 11 members of staff also tested positive. All the active cases detected through the schools’ surveillance system are under isolation and being managed following the relevant protocols.

“Cabinet resolved as follows, that, given the science-based guidance from the Paediatric Association of Zimbabwe Special COVID-19 Vaccine Group, COVID-19 vaccination be extended to the 12 to 15 years age group,” said Minister Gumbo.

The number of people in need of hospitalisation for COVID-19 increased, with the country’s bed occupancy rate increasing from 1.3% the previous week to 2.1% during the week under review, a total of (54) fifty-four new admissions were recorded during the week compared to (32) thirty-two the previous week.

Meanwhile, as at 18 February, 2022, the cumulative number of first, second and third doses administered stood at 4 336 120; 3 369 172 and 101 748 respectively.