Coronavirus pandemic: Cameroon is 7th hardest hit in Africa as the continent records over 400 cases

Cameroon has become the 7th African country hardest hit by the deadly coronavirus which has been named a pandemic by the World Health Organisation, WHO.

Public Health Minister’s call for calm and caution has not satisfied many who think government is not taking enough steps to curb further spread of the virus.

“Unfortunately, I would like to announce the registration of 5 additional cases in Yaoundé in Cameroon, thus bringing to 10 patients in our country,“ Manaouda Malachie, the Public Health Minister said early Tuesday, adding that “Each of us can stop the circulation of this virus by taking prescribed distancing measures“.

On Monday, pressure were mounted on the government to close its borders and ensure travellers from high risk countries are isolated, but the appearance of House Speaker Cavaye Yeguie Djibril in parliament a day after he returned from France where the virus is widespread provoked outrage among many.

Cameroon’s health care systems are fragile and a high number of cases would put incredible strain on resources and hospitals. The country is battling to eradicate malaria, cholera, Pollio and provide drugs to HIV patients amid socio-political crisis.

As at now, there are more than 400 known cases of coronavirus across the continent, with nations imposing a range of measures to try to prevent the spread.

According to the latest data, the breakdown is as follows:
• Algeria – 60
• Benin – 1
• Burkina Faso – 15
• Cameroon – 10
• Central African Republic – 1
• Congo-Brazzaville – 1
• DR Congo – 2
• Egypt – 126
• Eswatini – 1
• Ethiopia – 5
• Equatorial Guinea – 1
• Gabon – 1
• Ghana – 6
• Guinea – 1
• Ivory Coast – 3
• Kenya – 3
• Liberia – 2
• Mauritania – 1
• Morocco – 37
• Namibia – 2
• Nigeria – 3
• Rwanda – 7
• Senegal – 26
• Seychelles – 4
• Somalia – 1
• South Africa – 62
• Sudan – 1
• Tanzania – 1
• Togo – 1
• Tunisia – 24

While many countries are closing schools, banning large gatherings and shutting borders, Cameroon seems to be taking its time in that light. There is increasing concern about the potential economic impact in Africa.
People working in other parts of the world are likely to have less money available to send to their families home as working hours are being slashed.

©Mimi Mefo Info