COVID-19 spike: Somalia introduces new measures, zones 11 countries

A doctor and a nurse prepare a ward for COVID-19 patients at a hospital in Mogadishu, Somalia. Photo by: REUTERS

MOGADISHU, Somalia - The Federal Government of Somalia has introduced new measures geared towards arresting Covid-19, following an unprecedented spike of cases across the country, leading to hundreds of infections.

In the latest measures, Somalia has banned social events which promote large gatherings besides zoning 11 nations which are believed to be hotspots. The country is battling with the third wave.

On Monday, the Ministry of Health urged residents to observe strict guidelines while those travelling into the country without genuine COVID-19 negative certificates will be required to observe a 14-day self-quarantine.

Some of the measures that were put in place include the banning of sporting events, weddings, and protests. The Ministry also introduced nighttime curfews but left it to the Federal and State governments to determine the specific timings.

Further, those travelling from Uganda, India, Sri Lanka, UK, Mexico, South Africa, Nepal UAE, Iran, Saudi Arabia and Bangladesh will be required to self-quarantine for 14 days, the new measures note.

A similar directive shall apply to Somalis who arrive in the country but do not have a genuine COVID-19 negative PCR certificate. All travellers into the country, save for children under 12 years must produce a COVID-19 negative PCR certificate.

In addition, the government has also urged a work from a home arrangement for civil servants while encouraging the private sector to enforce vaccination among their staff.

COVID-19 cases have risen steadily in recent weeks while deaths have averaged ten in the last two weeks. So far, 1,079 people have died from the disease according to government records while the number of infections has risen to 19, 234 as of September 21, 2021.

Somalia has one of the most dysfunctional and dilapidated healthcare infrastructures, making it difficult for citizens to get access to better treatment. The country largely depends on donors in the fight against the pandemic.

GAROWE ONLINE