Government Statement on Coronavirus Disease
Thursday, 19 March 2020. Lusaka - Members of the press and general public, allow me to update you on the current status on COVID-19 in Zambia and globally.
On follow-up to the confirmed cases, our disease intelligence team has identified those who were on the plane with the affected persons and are at risk. The 82 travellers who disembarked in Lusaka, Zambia are being followed up actively to ascertain risk of exposure. Eight close contacts to the affected are in self-quarantine and being tested for COVID-19.
In our routine travel related disease intelligence, we have screened 29,992 travellers, with 2,258 being persons from high risk areas. Among those from the high risk areas, 460 have been cleared under 14 days quarantine and watch. We continue to investigate alerts as they arise. As of this morning, we do not have any additional cases of COVID-19.
Globally, the number of cases recorded as at 08:00GMT, a total of 220,199 cases and 8,982 deaths have been confirmed. Although many persons are still under treatment 85,769 persons have recovered. Thirty four (34) African countries, including Zambia, have recorded 306 cases and 16 deaths.
I now wish to announce the additional key measures that have come into force with immediate effect in order for us to prevent the COVID-19 from circulating in our community.
Restriction of mass public gatherings including events, conferences and meetings until further notice.
Bars and night clubs are instructed to immediately reduce opening time to a maximum of two hours. The Local authorities and authorised officers will monitor compliance and revoke licenses of those not complying.
Restaurants will offer only takeaway services and minimise time of contact with their clients.
The churches and other religious congregations will reduce the number of persons in each session and meet for a maximum of one hour.
With the issuance of SIs 21 & 22 of 2020, all public places are required to ensure provision of hand washing facilities and sanitation. All public places must keep their environments clean, failure to which they risk being closed down.
There will be a suspension of trading activities in all markets this weekend to allow for a thorough cleanup.
Personal hygiene is key; therefore, all members of the public are advised to continue practicing social distancing, avoid handshakes and close contact.
All persons displaying symptoms to communicate to our health authorities for advice while remaining in self-quarantine.
I wish to assure you that our multisectoral team is working with various stakeholders including our cooperating partners, church mother bodies, civil societies and some members of the public in ensuring the disease is contained and prevented from escalating.
The Government under the leadership of His Excellency the President of the Republic of Zambia Dr Edgar Chagwa Lungu continues to pitch public health security as a priority.
God Bless Zambia. I thank you.
Hon. Dr Chitalu Chilufya MP,MCC
Minister of Health