The World Health Organization (WHO) has issued a warning about a rise in COVID-19 cases coinciding with a severe flu season in Zimbabwe, which some suspect could be a resurgence of the COVID-19 virus. Contrary to these concerns, the government has reassured the public that the flu outbreak is merely a result of the cold weather and is not linked to COVID-19. In a letter addressed to the Health and Child Care Secretary, Aspect Maunganidze, WHO representative Desta Tiruneh highlighted an increase in cases in several countries among pilgrims returning from Hajj in Mecca.
“Countries with returning pilgrims are at risk of experiencing a rise in new COVID-19 infections. All concerned nations have been advised to enhance their readiness measures in anticipation of a potential surge in cases,” Tiruneh stated. WHO recommended that Member States adhere to International Health Regulations and avoid restricting international travel, instead focusing on strengthening surveillance and risk communication. They proposed measures such as intensifying COVID-19 surveillance at entry points to detect symptomatic cases and advising all returnees to self-isolate for a specified period.
The organization also emphasized the importance of personal protective measures like mask-wearing, frequent handwashing, and avoiding large gatherings through effective risk communication strategies. Tiruneh urged the Zimbabwean government to empower citizens to seek medical care promptly if feeling unwell while advocating home care for those with mild symptoms. He stressed the need for health facilities to be prepared with adequate oxygen supply for managing severe cases.
In response to previous concerns in May about a potential COVID-19 resurgence, Health, and Child Care Secretary Aspect Maunganidze had assured the public that the observed flu-like illnesses were due to common cold viruses associated with the winter season, not COVID-19 or any new viruses. Medical and Dental Private Practitioners of Zimbabwe Association president Johannes Marisa echoed calmness but recommended heightened surveillance, particularly at ports of entry, to promptly identify and manage suspected cases.
Deputy Health and Child Care Minister Sleiman Timios Kwidini confirmed that Zimbabwe had not reported any COVID-19 cases recently, reassuring the public of ongoing surveillance and readiness to respond to any potential threats. Overall, while WHO’s warning underscores the need for vigilance, Zimbabwean health authorities continue to monitor the situation closely and emphasize preventive measures to mitigate any potential spread of COVID-19.
In other news – A bus conductor in trouble after fondling a woman’s private parts
Inter-Arica bus conductor Learnmore Gwasira is facing legal trouble after being accused of inappropriately touching a woman in Plumtree. The incident came to light during a court session at Plumtree Magistrates Court, where Gwasira entered a plea of not guilty before Magistrate Arafat Kozanai.
Magistrate Kozanai granted Gwasira bail until July 12th, following the state’s allegations that on June 12th, Gwasira had been hired by the complainant, along with a taxi driver, to escort her to the Vehicle Inspection Department (VID) to retrieve her impounded car. Read More