Zambia: Chilanga District Acting Health Director Yvette Nampungwe says the district recorded five positive COVID 19 cases. All the cases were recorded in the second quarter of the year 2024 during regular health screenings.
The healthcare sector of the Chilanga District has been monitoring the number of cases in various epidemics and pandemics that have affected the nation in the previous years. Dr Nampungwe highlighted that a total of 102 people were tested in the second quarter.
Out of this number five turned out to be positive for COVID-19. The administration has tracked down the individuals who have been tested positive and advised them to take necessary precaution
Dr Nampungwe spoke to the media regarding this new development in Chilanga. She informed them that the health office is currently waiting for influenza testing kits from the Zambia Medicines and Medical Supplies Agency (ZAMMSA).
She says currently people are being treated according to the symptoms they present in cases of influenza as the department waits for ZAMMSA to supply the testing kits.
Dr Nampungwe has advised people to keep warm, mask up and observe the other five golden rules to prevent COVID-19 aadding that people should also seek treatment from health facilities when symptoms persist.
“Respiratory infections tend to increase when temperatures drop hence the need for people to keep warm and also use home remedies in common flu cases but if they suspect they may have COVID 19 or influenza they should seek medical attention”. She said
Influenza is a contagious respiratory Illness caused by influenza viruses and it can cause mild to severe illness and at times can lead to death.
COVID 19 is an infectious disease caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus which can cause mild to severe respiratory illness including death.
Recently, the Ministry of Health Minister Silver Masebo disclosed that there is an increase in the number of cases of respiratory illness which include the common cold, Influenza and COVID-19.