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On COVID 19!

Mar 4, 2020, 3:53 PM

The global economy appears headed for uncharted and troubled territory thanks to the new infectious Coronavirus that has now spread to countries far and near as Senegal.

The virus has not only crippled global supply chains, but has also paralyzed global markets and other institutions. What is more worrying is that our immediate neighbors-Senegal on Monday confirmed its first case. The Senegal reported case has sent shock waves across the country looking at the proximity and porous borders between the two countries. Let’s put all hands on deck and take nothing for granted looking at the magnitude the virus is spreading.

On Wednesday, the head of the World Health Organization (WHO) said that public health officials are operating in “uncharted territory” as they combat the spread of the novel coronavirus, which has infected more than 90,000 people across 73 countries and territories as of Monday evening. Around the world, the death toll has also risen to 3,137 deaths so far.

Meanwhile, authorities in the country are making frantic efforts and putting in place mechanisms to keep this deadly virus at bay in case it shows its ugly face in the country.

Earlier on, the Ministry of Health dispelled rumours circulating on social media that a Gambian from Italy reported to EFSTH with signs and symptoms of COVID-19. To that end, the Ministry assured the public that there has been no case of COVID-19 in The Gambia and the ministry and its partners are doing all they can to maintain The Gambia free from COVID-19.

While efforts are on course to find a suitable cure for this deadly virus on the global scene, here are some basic tips for limiting exposure to the COVID-19: Wash hands often with warm water and soap for at least 20 seconds. Hand sanitizer is a good substitute when washing of hands isn’t possible; keep hands away from mouth, nose or eyes to avoid transferring germs; clean and disinfect counters, doorknobs, remotes and other frequently used surfaces; cover coughs and sneezes with a tissue, then throw the tissue away and wash your hands; if you feel sick, stay away from work, school or other activities; avoid close contact with others and bump fists or elbows rather than shaking hands, for example.

A Guest Editorial