By Duncan Mlanjira
Saturday’s situation report from the presidential task force on COVID-19 indicates that Malawi did not register any new cases from the 231 tests that were conducted in the past 24 hours.
This milestone was only achieved on May 26 and co-chairperson of the task force, Dr. John Phuka says this gives the hope that if people continue to practice and adhere to all preventive and containment measures, the country can completely reduce the new infections.
Coronavirus alert
There were no new deaths and the number of new recoveries were four — bringing the total of those recovered at 4,539.
Cumulatively, Malawi has recorded 5,783 cases including 179 deaths and following the high number of recoveries, active case are at 1,065.
Cumulatively, 54,246 tests have been conducted in the country so far and Dr. Phuka reiterates that the public should not relax and relent on the efforts of combat the pandemic.
Be aware that SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19, mostly spreads by respiratory droplets released when people talk, cough, or sneeze.
Coronavirus alert
“It is thought that the virus may also spread to hands from a contaminated surface and then to the nose, mouth or eyes, causing infection.
“The spread of the virus is faster in overcrowded places. Therefore, it is especially important to take caution when organizing or when attending mass gatherings as the risk of contracting or spreading the disease is high.
“The more people an individual interacts with at a gathering and the longer that interaction lasts, the higher the potential risk of becoming infected with COVID-19 or spreading the COVID-19 to others.
“COVID-19 preventive and containment measures should be highly considered for all mass gatherings such as frequent handwashing or sanitisation, maintaining at least 1 metre apart between individuals, wearing face mask properly and implementing environmental prevention practices such as cleaning and disinfecting frequently touched surfaces.”
Coronavirus alert