Coronavirus in Zambia: What is being done?

On Wednesday the Minister of Health Chitalu Chilufya confirmed the presence of coronavirus COVID-19 in the country. President Lungu has advised the public not to panic but to report any suspected cases or symptoms to the nearest health facility. In addition to practicing good hygiene this articles looks at what else has been done to try and contain the risk.

Screening at entry

The Zambia Public Health Institute has rolled out mandatory screening at every point of entry. Zambia’s first confirmed cases were a couple from Lusaka returning from a holiday in France. The pair were screened at Kenneth Kaunda International Airport before being placed on home quarantine as a precaution. They were later found to have contracted the virus.

Avoid travel

In line with measures introduced in many countries globally and across the region foreign travel has been restricted and citizens advised to avoid all travel possible.

Schools are closing

Before the two cases confirmed in Zambia were announced Government earlier this week announced that schools, colleges and universities will close as of Friday 20th March. No date has been given for re-opening.

UTH cancels patient visitations

University Teaching Hospital (UTH) has cancelled patient visitation in a bid to stem transmission of the coronavirus and reduce overcrowding in the hospitals. Under the new restrictions one bed aider per patient is allowed and will be issued with a card by hospital security. Ndola Teaching Hospital has also introduced restrictions, limiting patient to one visit per day.

Sports fixtures cancelled

Various sports matches and events have been subject to cancellation in order to protect players, fans and the general public. These include the Absa Cup quarter finals, originally scheduled for this weekend and the Total African Nations Championship (CHAN) scheduled for Cameroon in April 2020.

Parliament has closed

Following the confirmation of two cases of coronavirus in Zambia a motion to adjourn Parliament without a date for reconvening was yesterday moved by Vice President Inonge Wina. The motion received unanimous support.

Lusaka Province elections postponed

PF Secretary General Davies Mwila has confirmed the postponement of the Lusaka Provincial Elections scheduled for March 20.

Those experiencing symptoms are advised to contact the Zambia National Public Health Institute using the following numbers:

Mobile +260 97 4493553

Mobile +260 96 4638726

Mobile +260 95 3898941