The government has said COVID-19 remains under control in the country with the recovery rate now at over 90 percent.
This comes at a time when the World Health Organisation (WHO) estimated that at least 90% of the world’s population now has some immunity to SARS-CoV-2 (the virus that causes COVID-19), due to prior infection or vaccination.
“The nation is advised that, as at 4 December 2022, the country’s cumulative cases since the outbreak of COVID-19 in 2020 stood at 259 356, with 253 241 recoveries and 5 622 cumulative deaths,” said Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services Minister, Monica Mutsvangwa, during a post Cabinet media briefing in Harare Tuesday.
“The recovery rate was 98%, with 493 active cases having been reported. The scientific indicators show that the pandemic remains under control. The country, nonetheless, should remain vigilant against COVID-19.”
Mutsvangwa said provinces would strengthen the implementation of COVID-19 vaccination during the ongoing poliomyelitis vaccination campaign and ensure that all stakeholders including political leaders, local authorities, partners and donors are mobilised for the exercise.
“Enforcement of COVID-19 regulations will also be strengthened, especially during the festive season,” she emphasized.
“Regarding the national vaccination programme, Cabinet wishes to inform the nation that, as at 4 December 2022, a total of 6 574 434 first doses of the COVID-19 vaccine had been administered, while 4 924 009 people had received their second dose, and 1 253 395 their third dose. This translates to a national coverage of 58.5%.”
The country, Mutsvangwa said, should remain focused and continue pushing for higher vaccination coverage in order to provide maximum protection to all citizens.
“A strengthened vaccination plan and electronic register that enables vaccination teams to easily identify and follow up those who have not yet received their second or third dose is due for introduction, and the Ministry of Health and Child Care will update the nation progress made,” she explained.
“This approach will not only help to increase the COVID-19 vaccine uptake, but will also strengthen the under-five year old Expanded Programme on Immunisation.”
