Over 10 000 health workers in Africa infected with Covid-19 (Video)
“We had more than 115 000 cases in the past week and 93 per cent of these cases occurred in 10 countries, with over 74 per cent coming from South Africa.”
More than 10 000 health workers have been infected with Covid-19 in the African region.
Joined by representatives from several African countries, the World Health Organisation (WHO) regional director for Africa, Dr Matshidiso Moeti focused on how Covid-19 is affecting health workers in Africa during today’s press briefing.
“In total there are almost 77 000 reported cases and more than 16 000 people have died of Covid-19 in Africa,” said Moeti.
“In the WHO African Region, which is mainly sub-Saharan Africa, we had more than 115 000 cases in the past week,” said Moeti.
“93 per cent of these cases occurred in 10 countries, with over 74 per cent coming from South Africa.”
Moeti said cases have also increased in southern Africa like Zambia, Zimbabwe and Namibia.
At the same time the organisation identified 12 countries which have remained at having fewer than 1 000 Covid-19 cases.
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Discussing the impact of the virus on health workers, Moeti said besides the fear of contracting the virus, health workers in some communities face discrimination because of fears and misinformation around this virus.
“Dedicated nurses, cleaners, doctors, laboratory technicians and community health workers are on the frontline of this response.”
Also read: Covid-19: Vulnerable populations and refugees the focus of WHO Africa
Moeti said the global shortage of personal protective equipment adds to the concerns about health workers’ safety.
She highlighted that the shortage severely affected countries on the continent.
“Through the Global UN Supply platform, more than 2 million items of PPE were shipped to African countries.
“A further 41 million PPE items are in the pipeline for shipment which is set to start this weekend.”
Dr @MoetiTshidi: "The African diaspora has been significantly involved in helping to disseminate information, training, & improving skills. They have also… mobilised support for the response in the Region." #COVID19
— WHO African Region (@WHOAFRO) July 23, 2020
Also read: African countries among innovation leaders in the fight against Covid-19
“In Africa and in countries all over the world, there is robust discussion and decision-making happening, as countries have to balance public health and the social measures put in place, with the opening of economies, opening schools and businesses.”
“The easing of measures demands a strong focus on prevention through strengthened public health systems and action by communities.”
“I reiterate our call for global solidarity and equitable access to essential supplies in fighting Covid-19, which includes PPE, test kits and other critical items.”
“There are urgent and continuous needs for support from the international community as African countries respond to this crisis.”
Moeti said to further assist the situation the WHO and Africa CDC launched an expert advisory committee.
Launched this week the committee will provide independent scientific advice and support to countries on research and development of traditional medicines and remedies for Covid-19.
Dr @MoetiTshidi: "In the African Region, more than 10,000 health workers have been infected with #COVID19."
— WHO African Region (@WHOAFRO) July 23, 2020
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