Covid-19 Spreads To 104 Districts

Cases of Covid-19 have been confirmed in 104 of Zambia’s 116 districts, with 27,728 people infected and 469 deaths since the virus first broke out in the country early last year. 

On Sunday, now-disgraced former health minister Chitalu Chilufya announced that 1,161 new cases of Covid-19 had been recorded in the past 24 hours. He said the worst affected districts were Lusaka, with 365 cases; Ndola with 140; Kabwe with 137; Rufunsa with 74, and Chipata with 52. 

Dr Chilufya reiterated that the only way to manage the pandemic is for Zambians to limit their contact with other people: maintaining social distance, wearing masks, and washing their hands frequently. The then-health minister called on citizens to follow the health guidelines and stay at home if they experienced symptoms. 

It comes as home affairs minister Stephen Kampyongo and Muchinga Province minister Malozo Sichone both tested positive for the virus this weekend. Mr Kampyongo is believed to have contracted the virus while on tour in Shiwangandu and is currently receiving treatment in Chinsali General Hospital. Mr Sichone is also self isolating at his home in Mpika. 

Mr Sinchone, who is a member of parliament for Isoka, directed the people of Muchinga Province to stay at home and avoid public gatherings such as weddings, kitchen parties, funerals and church services.