Zimbabwe confirms 506 quarantined for suspected coronavirus

Zimbabwe’s cabinet has confirmed that 506 people are being monitored for possible cases of coronavirus after entering the country from infected regions. 

Speaking to local media on Tuesday, Information Minister Monica Mustvangwa that there were no confirmed cases of the virus in Zimbabwe but reminded citizens to take proper hygiene precautions. 

“The Minister of Health informed cabinet that about 506 persons are currently under surveillance in Zimbabwe for possible infection with the virus there is currently no vaccine against the virus and emphasised the need for personal, family and community hygiene," Mutsvangwa said. 

Zimbabwe was placed on high alert last week, with additional security forces placed at all major points of entry. Health Minister Obadiah Moyo has said the country is well-equipped to combat the virus. 

“Everybody is ready and well-equipped for this coronavirus and at the same time well-equipped in terms of monitoring and controlling infections at our borders, at the airports and at the ground ports," he said. 

The minister also advised citizens to delay or cancel travel plans to countries with confirmed cases of coronavirus. 

The deadly virus was first spotted in the Chinese city of Wuhan on New Year’s Eve. Since then it has infected over 20,000 people, killing 563. 

Photo: AFP