Africa has more than 600 cases of corona virus confirmed in 34 countries in Africa as of 19 March, compared with 147 cases one week ago, said Dr Matshidiso Moeti World Health Organization or WHO Director for Africa.
He in a statement CRN got on Friday said ‘the rapid evolution of COVID-19 in Africa is deeply worrisome and a clear signal for action. But we can still change the course of this pandemic’.
The director advised governments must draw on all of their resources and capabilities and strengthen their response’.
He called on governments to prevent local transmission from evolving into a worst case scenario of widespread sustained community transmission.
‘Africa can learn from the experiences of other countries which have seen a sharp decline in COVID-19 cases through rapidly scaling up testing, isolating cases and meticulously tracking contacts,’ said Dr Moeti.
‘COVID-19 is one of the biggest health challenges Africa has faced in a generation,’ said Dr Moeti. ‘We can only stop this virus through solidarity. And the world is coming together’ he said.
WHO director disclosed that ‘donors are stepping up to the plate and providing funding while private sectors in many countries are offering their support as well’.
He noted that lessons learnt in addressing previous epidemics are being used as a foundation to respond.
Basic preventative measures by individuals and communities remain the most powerful tool to prevent the spread of COVID-19.