In less than two months, Region seven has recorded over 200 cases of the novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19), with Bartica and surrounding communities becoming major hotspots, Regional Health Officer (RHO). Dr. Edward Sagala has said.
According to a statement issued yesterday by Sagala, 226 persons from the region have tested positive for the disease to date. This number is expected to increase.
In addition, the statement said 86 persons remain in home isolation and seven persons in institutional isolation, while 19 persons are quarantined at home. Five persons from the region have also died as a result of COVID-19.
“The pain and suffering that COVID-19 has caused, and continues to cause, in our region is beyond what we would have imagined. This is bad news. While we are lucky that our remote, hinterland communities remain stable, Bartica and its environs continue to be a hotspot for COVID-19 in the region,” the statement noted.
Meanwhile, Sagala stressed that the disease is not going to go away soon and issued another appeal for residents to adhere to precautionary measures that were instituted for their protection. “Contrary to the belief of some, it is sad to say that COVID-19 is not going away soon. We cannot afford to let our guards down. There must not be any room for complacency about this deadly disease… Please continue to observe the advisories that have been proven to curb the further spread of COVID-19. Wash your hands, practice social distancing and always wear a face mask,” the statement added.
