15 Mar 2020

The Southern Region Health Management Coordinator, Ms Josephine Mosimanewakgosi says the region is on high alert with regard to the coronavirus (COVID-19) epidemic around the world.

Briefing the District Development Committee (DDC) on the region’s preparedness to fight the virus rececently, Ms Mosimanewakgosi said the country has not registered a single case of the disease as all the samples of suspected cases tested negative.

COVID-19 has been declared an epidemic by the World Health Organisation. Ms Mosimanewakgosi advised Batswana to remain vigilant and to take all necessary precautionary measures that could help stop the disease from entering the country such as washing hands with soap, using sanitizers and avoiding unnecessary trips to corona infested countries.

Ms Mosimanewakgosi also allayed fears by members of the public, saying there was screening at border posts and airports with a view to contain the virus.

“If there are any suspicions that one might have contracted COVID 19, such an individual will be taken to Sir Ketumile Masire hospital for quarantining until such time when health officials are confident the person is free from the virus,” she said. According to Ms Mosimanewakgosi, the elderly, people living with ailments such as HIV/AIDS and diabetes fell within the vulnerable bracket due to their already compromised immune system.

Principal health officer, Mr Onalethata Maiketso said the region’s health management team was holding awareness forums around the district in an effort to sensitise communities about coronavirus.

He also said schools around the district fell within their radar, adding that they had so far covered Lorolwane, Gasita, Selokolela, Moshana and Motsatsing primary schools as well as Young Women Christian Association (YWCA) pre-schools among others.

Mr Tebogo Moahi, a resident of Kanye, said in an interview that information regarding the prevention of COVID-19 should be imparted to the public through different media platforms as a precautionary measure.

He was of the view that the Ministry of Health and Wellness should supply musks the same way it did with condoms to keep coronavirus at bay. Ends