Zimbabwe: Government Allays Fears of COVID-19 Outbreak

Harare, Zimbabwe – The Zimbabwean government has sought to allay fears of a potential COVID-19 outbreak in the country, emphasizing its robust surveillance and containment measures. Responding to concerns raised by citizens, the Minister of Health and Child Care, Constantino Chiwenga, stated that there were no confirmed cases of COVID-19 in Zimbabwe as of March 12, 2020. The minister highlighted that the government had implemented strict border controls, airport screenings, and quarantine procedures to prevent the spread of the virus. Chiwenga also emphasized that the government had procured sufficient supplies of personal protective equipment (PPE), test kits, and ventilators to handle any potential cases. The country’s isolation and treatment centers have been designated and equipped to provide appropriate care to infected patients. The minister acknowledged the global concern over the COVID-19 pandemic, but urged Zimbabweans to remain calm and vigilant. He advised citizens to practice good hygiene, including frequent handwashing and social distancing. Chiwenga further announced that the government had convened an inter-ministerial task force to coordinate the country’s response to the pandemic. The task force will ensure the implementation of preventive measures, monitor the situation, and provide regular updates to the public. The government called upon health care workers, community leaders, and the media to play a crucial role in disseminating accurate information and promoting preventive measures. The assurance from the government comes amidst heightened global concern over the spread of COVID-19. Several countries have reported confirmed cases, leading to travel restrictions and border closures. Zimbabweans have been advised to cooperate with government efforts to prevent the virus from entering the country or spreading within its borders.Zimbabwe: Government Denies COVID-19 Outbreak, Attributes Flu Surge to Seasonal Phenomenon

Zimbabwe: Government Denies COVID-19 Outbreak, Attributes Flu Surge to Seasonal Phenomenon

The Zimbabwean government has assured citizens that the recent spike in influenza-like illnesses is a seasonal occurrence and not an outbreak of COVID-19. During a post-cabinet briefing, Minister of Information Jenfan Muswere emphasized that the situation is under control. “This is not a COVID-19 outbreak, but a seasonal phenomenon experienced during the winter season,” Muswere stated. The minister compared the current influenza cases to data from previous years, highlighting a higher incidence of flu in 2023 compared to 2024. Zimbabwe has not reported any new COVID-19 cases in the past four weeks. Muswere urged the public to take preventive measures such as handwashing, avoiding large gatherings, and covering their mouths and noses. The Meteorological Services Department also issued a warning about the increased risk of respiratory illnesses during the winter season. They advised people to dress warmly and care for vulnerable individuals. According to the Ministry of Health’s Disease Surveillance Report for the week ending May 15, 2024, over 3,900 suspected influenza cases were reported, primarily in Mashonaland East and Central provinces. No deaths have been associated with these cases. The government reiterated that the current flu surge is not a cause for alarm and that the situation is being closely monitored.The Ministry of Health and Child Care has allayed fears of a Covid-19 outbreak in the country following the detection of two suspected cases in Beitbridge on Monday. In a statement, the ministry said the two suspected cases, a 28-year-old man and a 36-year-old woman, had since tested negative for the virus. “The Ministry of Health and Child Care would like to inform the nation that the two suspected COVID-19 cases in Beitbridge have tested negative,” the statement said. “The two cases were initially suspected after they presented with symptoms suggestive of COVID-19, but their samples were sent to the National Microbiology Reference Laboratory for testing and they came out negative.” The ministry said the two cases were not linked to any known cases of COVID-19 and that there was no evidence of community transmission of the virus in the country. “The ministry would like to assure the nation that there is no outbreak of COVID-19 in Zimbabwe,” the statement said. “The ministry is closely monitoring the situation and is taking all necessary measures to prevent the spread of the virus into the country.” The ministry urged the public to remain vigilant and to continue to follow the preventive measures that have been put in place by the government. “The public is urged to continue to wash their hands frequently with soap and water, to avoid touching their faces, and to practice social distancing,” the statement said. “The public is also urged to report any suspected cases of COVID-19 to their nearest health facility immediately.”