Zimbabwe government remains out of action as COVID 19 wrecks havoc in boarding schools

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The government has laid out COVID-19 preventive measures in boarding schools, while enforcement of regulations will be tightened amid fears of a second wave of the coronavirus.

Within the past week, the country has recorded over two hundred positive cases of the virus, with a worrying trend being reported in schools and tertiary institutions.

John Tallach and Matobo High Schools, in that order, Matebeleland North and South provinces have since been sealed off after recording 184 and 10 coronavirus cases.

In a post-cabinet briefing this Tuesday, the government announced that the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education with technical support from the Ministry of Health and Child Care is organising logistics for implementing the following practical measures to minimise the recurrence of the John Tallach School experience in other boarding schools;

reviewing the maximum carrying capacity of all boarding hostels;
conducting a detailed inspection of boarding facilities;
targeted training of hostel matron, boarding masters as well as kitchen staff.

Cabinet reiterates that the lockdown and curfew measures previously announced are still subsisting. It noted:

It should be noted that public bars, night clubs, beerhalls, casinos, betting shops and theatres are still not permitted to operate.
The nation is informed that gatherings are still limited to two (2) persons, while authorised events such as weddings and church congregation as are limited to fifty (50) and one hundred (100) persons, respectively.
The enforcement of lockdown measures will be intensified henceforth.
It should be emphasized that where there is non-compliance to these regulations the low enforcement agencies will not hesitate to enforce the penalties prescribed.
With the festive season fast approaching, the public is advised to take all the necessary precautions to prevent a surge in COVID-19 positive cases.
Those visiting the country should undergo COVID-19 tests in their countries of origin and bring valid COVID-19 negative results obtained within 48 hours of departure in line with WHO protocols.

The government also announced that there shall be a robust awareness creation programme under which the engagement of communities is being strengthened.

Cabinet also advised that Natpharm and private companies have adequate stocks of most medicines and drugs required for the prevention, treatment and supportive management of COVID-19.