The
World Health Organisation - The Gambia Country office last Friday presented
personal protective equipment to the Ministry of Health at a ceremony held at
the Ministry’s complex in Banjul.
The
items donated include thermometers infra red, face shield, safety box, glove
examination, gowns, mask surgical and respirator google protective among others.
Dr.
Desta A. Tiruneh, WHO’s country rep., stated that the cases of coronavirus are
a great concern to the world, pointing out that cases have been registered in
countries on daily basis. Dr. Desta noted that the donation of the personal
protective equipment is important towards The Gambia’s preparedness to prevent
the coronavirus cases.
He
pointed out that in Africa, cases have been reported but there was no locally
acquired case yet. This stock of personal protective equipment donated to the
country, he said, is part of their stock that is kept in Ghana.
He
strongly assured The Gambia of WHO’s continuous support toward preparedness to prevent the virus in the
country, adding that once countries’ plan to prevent the coronavius is
finalized, the support will continue.
The
WHO country rep therefore advised the general public not to create panic.
Dr.
Ahmadou Lamin Samateh, minister of Health, described the donation as timely,
adding that The Gambia will enhance its prevention and preparedness at all levels.
He
assured WHO that The Gambia government through the Ministry of Health was doing
all its best for the general public to get accurate and factual information
about the coronavirus. He added that they are harnessing all means of
communication to disseminate information.
He thus advised the general public to always
wash their hands with soap and water and always use hand sanitisers.
He
assured the donors that the items donated will be judiciously put into good
use.
