Coronavirus pandemic: Medical students decry exposure to contamination in hospitals.

Some medical students carrying out an internship in medical facilities in the country have raised worries over the treatment they get in the face of the coronavirus pandemic.

Talking to MMI, a medical student on internship in the nation’s economic capital, Douala says despite the challenges posed by the virus and the suspension of academic activities nationwide, they are compelled to carry on with their fieldwork in a hospital without protection.

Clinical students, he says “are not in accord with this decision considering the very high risk of contamination.”

“With deplorable conditions of work in hospitals interns don’t have the right to use a hospital mask, gloves and other items but have been asked to stay. Some hospitals don’t even have space for students to change” he adds.

Their lives he says “are at risk along with with a side that of our families and communities for no motivation. Not even minimal working conditions.”

As a result of this, he says “some students have been exposed, increasing their chances of contracting the virus. Now they’ve called some students who were exposed to the confirmed case for quarantine”.

Despite measures put in place by the government to limit the spread of the virus, the number of cases in the country has gradually increased, causing more fear. Health Minister, Manaouda Malachie has however, called on the population to remain calm and ensure strict respect of hygienic measures recommended by the authorities and the WHO.

Mimi Mefo Info