by Derick Tsimba

Zimbabwe has joined the rest of the world in stepping up efforts to fight against Corona Virus (COVID-19).

In a press statement recently, the Ministry of Health and Child Care said it was increasing its fight against COVID-19.

“As we intensify COVID-19 preparedness and response interventions, taking into consideration that there are increasing cases in the region in particular in South Africa knowing the huge flow of travellers to and from South Africa, the Ministry recommends: As we go into the Easter festivities knowing the huge gathering that come with it, all gatherings of people such as church meetings, weddings conferences and others are hereby discouraged.

“Non-essential travels to countries having local transmission are hereby discouraged. All public institutions/ buildings such as offices, supermarket and banks should have hand sanitizers at all times,” said the Ministry of Health. 

In Southern Africa, South Africa has been affected by COVID-19 with about 62 people infected. This has led that country to carryout measures to curb the disease. South Africa has resorted on issuing a travel ban on high risk countries for its Citizens not to travel to high risk countries. Gatherings of more than a 100 people have been prohibited and large events and celebrations have also been cancelled.

The World Health Organisation (WHO) on its webpage said the basic protective measures against COVID-19 are to wash hands frequently, maintaining social distancing, avoiding touching eyes, nose and mouth as well as practicing respiratory hygiene.

Wilkins Hospital in Harare is the country’s main isolation centre for suspected COVID-19. Zimbabwe is being assisted by China and United Kingdom Department for International Development (DFID) to fight against COVID-19. DFID donated protective equipment worth close to USD130 000 whilst China is also funding the upgrading of Wilkins Hospital.