COVID-19: Follow ups  on travellers continue Obadiah Moyo

Talent Gore and Munashe Muchero

Health and Child Care Minister Dr Obadiah Moyo yesterday updated Cabinet on the state of preparedness and response progress across the country’s entry ports and hospitals in regard to coronavirus (COVID-19).

He said his ministry continued to follow up on travellers who visited China and other affected countries.

“As of February23, a total number of 4 589 travellers have been screened at our air and ground ports of entry.

A suspected case that was admitted to Wilkins Infectious Diseases Hospital was discharged on 20 February 2020 after testing negative for the virus,” he said.

“She is now at home and will continue on the 21-day follow-up and surveillance before her self-quarantine can be lifted.”

Following reports that some people from affected countries were violating self-quarantine conditions set by the Government, Cabinet approved that the Ministry of Health and Child Care should intensify spot checks and enforce immediate detention and isolation of anyone who violates the said regulations.

“Our protocol continues to be stringent and protective of our nation and to further strengthen our surveillance.

“We are now following a scientific approach requiring all travellers coming from China to be screened and quarantined for fourteen (14) days in China and if they are found to be safe, they will be issued a clearance certificate to travel,” Dr Moyo said.

As of yesterday, the coronavirus was spreading in the Middle East, Europe, Latin America and other parts of the world, as Brazil confirmed its first case in Latin America, while parts of China begin to lower their emergency response level as the number of new cases reported there continues to slow.

You Might Also Like

Comments

Take our Survey

We value your opinion! Take a moment to complete our survey