Gambia's Resident Doctors say country has frail health system
Banjul, Gambia (PANA) - The Gambia Association of Resident Doctors (GARD) has said that the country has a frail health system which is currently undergoing its biggest public health emergencies which will in turn have a detriment on the health sector.
A statement made available to PANA here on Friday and signed by Dr. Musa Marena, President of GARD, and Dr. Ramatoulie Drammeh, Secretary General GARD, stated that within 20 days, there has been over 70 percent increase in the number of COVID-19 positive cases.
“The country has recorded two (2) fatalities of health care workers losing the battle to Covid-19. As of date, there are ten (10) doctors, 12 nurses and 15 support staff infected with Covid-19 and more than 60 health workers currently under quarantine. Statistically, all odds are against the health system with the surge in cases.
"If care is not taken, the health fraternity will crumble and lose out in the fight against Covid-19 and all other health illness,” the statement said.
The government has implemented certain measure in order to curb the rate of new infections. However, it is disheartening to note that these measures are not being respected by the general public, the statement said.
“The government has announced a State of Public Emergency which included ban on public gatherings and other measures.
“We are deeply saddened to notice government officials allowing public gathering to be held without proper social distancing and absence of the usage of masks. Events such as political rallies, open markets (wanterr/half the price), ceremonies and state burials are still being held despite the daily increase in cases.
"We deliver this statement as a means of reminder to the government and general public to increase its vigilance about the on-going infection. We have to ensure that members of the public wear mask, observe social distancing and proper hygiene. This measure has to be reinforced in order to flatten the cure,” said the statement.
PANA also report that the West African nation's Ministry of Health on Thursday confirmed 24 new cases of Covid-19, bringing the country’s total number of infections to 170, with 5 deaths.
In situation report No. 103, the ministry revealed that community transmission of coronavirus has now become a challenge, and thus requires ‘stringent’ lockdown measures to stem the virus from further spreading.
The ministry further confirmed the discovery of 14 new cases, all employees of Medicare Clinic, adding that over 85% of the new cases have had no recent travel history and no contact with an imported COVID-19 case and is indicative of the existence of pervasive community transmission.
In another development, opposition United Democratic Party (UDP) on Friday launched the ‘National Mask For All’ initiative to stop the spread of the deadly virus COVID-19 pandemic.
Party leader, Ousainou Darboe, said the party would donate 10,000 face masks across the country, starting from August 1.
The UDP Leader and former Vice President of the Gambia said his party has recognised the need to assist all Gambians and non-Gambians residing in the country.
He said the party would extend moral and financial assistance during this moment of need.
“The distribution of the masks will be done through the party’s youth wing,” he said.
Darboe called on Gambians to abide by the COVID-19 precautionary guidelines to stop the spread of the deadly Coronavirus. He reminded Gambians to maintain social distancing, hand washing, wear face masks and avoid social gatherings.
-0- PANA MSS/VAO 24July2020
