The Communication Lead at the Directorate of Health Security, Harold Thomas, has told Awoko that they are putting in place screening measures specifically in preparation against the Coronavirus. “We are tightening screening measures as part of infection prevention control at all entry points for all passengers entering the country. We will not wait until we are affected but to try and prevent any case coming in without our knowledge. Sierra Leone has a good relationship with China and we receive hundreds of Chinese into the country on a weekly basis and we must prepare for any case that will want to disrupt our health system.” He noted that people who are suspected of having the virus will be identified and handled accordingly and that will only happen if they take all the necessary precaution. Sierra Leone has only one laboratory equipped enough to test for the virus, and it is run by the China Center for Disease Control and Prevention operating in the country under a technical cooperation agreement.
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Coronaviruses usually infect mammals and birds. In humans, they cause respiratory infection like fever, cough, shortness of breath, and difficult breathing, which are often mild but can also be fatal. There are no known vaccines against Coronavirus diseases now. Mr Thomas said they are in the right mood and will not want to be taken by surprise. He said the lab at Jui, which is run by both Chinese and Sierra Leoneans are in operational mood and they are readily prepared in case they will have to start doing any test. Mr Thomas called on all to be alert and remember what happened during the Ebola. “The same process we went through during the ebola is the same … we must take necessary precaution by start washing our hands frequently with soap and water, Cough or sneeze into your elbow or use a tissue to cover your mouth and nose. Throw the tissue in a waste bin right away and wash your hands and avoid close contact with anyone who has fever and cough and avoid touching face, mouth, and eyes. We must check those people who have just arrived into the country from China to make sure they do not have these symptoms.” So far Chinese authorities have recorded about 830 cases with 26 fatalities. Sierra Leone is home to many Chinese who are involved in various economic activities. The Asian country is also a popular destination for Sierra Leonean students, businesspeople and tourists.
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