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
