15 Mar 2020

Political leaders have been urged to join forces with health officials to control and minimise the spread of the COVID-19 outbreak.

Addressing North West District councillors, Minister of Health and Wellness, Dr Lemogang Kwape said the COVID-19 epidemic was a public health issue. 

He appealed to leaders to lead by example and disseminate correct information about the outbreak to communities.

He said they should fears as the virus had not yet been confirmed in the country. 

He, however, said there were two suspected cases that were being investigated.

Dr Kwape noted that the coronavirus outbreak was a global health crisis, saying it had already affected the economies of countries.

He explained that there was no cure, hence the need to promote prevention, adding that those aged 60 and above, especially those with pre-existing conditions such as diabetes, heart disease and lung disease, were more at risk.

He also urged leaders to be cautious with social media reports as they could cause confusion.

The minister quashed reports that there was a patient quarantined at Matshwane Clinic in Maun.

He said the suspected case was registered in the Okavango Delta and that the patient was recuperating while awaiting results.

He said his ministry was doing all in its power to control the virus as stringent measures were in place in all ports of entry and airports.

Dr Kwape said the ministry had ensured that all officials at ports of entry had been trained in hygiene and infection control. He added that health staff had received surveillance, infection control and case management training.

He also assured councillors that COVID-19 tests would soon be done in the country. Currently, he said Botswana was assisted in South Africa.

He appealed to the public to take precautions and reduce movement, and assured leaders that Batswana residing in China were safe.

Dr Kwape advocated for frequent washing of hands with clean water and soap, to cover the mouth and nose when coughing and sneezing, throwing away tissue immediately and washing hands and avoiding close contact with anyone who has fever and coughs.

The public was also encouraged to seek medical assistance if they cough and had difficulty breathing. It was also encouraged  to share previous travel history with health care providers.

The minister said the outbreak needed collective efforts by all to contain and requested the council to consider proving sanitizers at schools.

Meanwhile, the Ngami District Health Management Team (DHMT) has confirmed one suspected case of COVID 19 in the Okavango Delta. Ends