Zambia: Fifteen footballers from one club get coronavirus

By Kennedy Gondwe

Nineteen players and officials have tested positive for Covid-19 at the Zambian premier league club Napsa Stars.

The number is the second highest after Forest Rangers reported 28 positive cases of players and officials two weeks ago.

The 15 players and four officials from Napsa Stars tested positive to Covid-19 after a routine check, club spokesperson Gwen Chipasula said in a statement.

She said all the positive players and officials have since gone into self-isolation in line with the Ministry of Health guidelines.

Ms Chipasula said that the club is in touch with the ministry to ensure that they are closely monitored to avoid the further spread of the virus.

She said that the rest of team has continued with preparations for upcoming fixtures.

The club's chairperson Greg Chola Nsofu, added:

“I would like to make an appeal to our players, the fans and the general football fraternity to adhere to all health measures, including wearing of face masks, social distancing and hand sanitising, among others.”

Zambia has to far reported over 4,481 coronavirus cases and 139 deaths.

This article originally appeared on BBC News

Photo: EPA