PM Abiy discusses with COVID19 National Ministerial Committee

Addis Ababa, March 9/2020( ENA) Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed today met with the Coronavirus (COVID19) National Ministerial Committee to assess the status of preparedness measures being taken to prevent the disease in the country.

The Government of Ethiopia recently formed a National Ministerial Committee aimed at monitoring the ongoing efforts to contain the threats of COVID-19 in the country.

State Minister Dr. Lia Tadesse briefed the Prime Minister and members of the cabinet about the measures that have been taken to prevent COVID19.

Though there is no confirmed positive case thus far, the Ministry of Health, in collaboration with relevant institutions, has set up a 24 hour emergency center to work on COVID19 preparedness, screening of travelers entering the country through land and air and follow-up of suspected cases.

It was indicated that, Yeka Kotebe hospital in the capital has been serving as the primary hospital to take care of suspected cases and positive confirmations with capacity to attend 600 patients.

Activities are also underway to strengthen communication so as to provide adequate and timely information to the public to raise awareness about the disease, it was learned.  

The prime minister on his part appreciated the progress, and said “It is imperative to maintain calm, undertake preventative care as per the Ministry of Health guidelines and strengthen awareness among our communities on prevention and response mechanisms.”

He stated that the Ministerial committee is exploring the means and ways to effectively respond to prevent the economic and social impacts of the problem. “I am fully confident of our progress thus far” the PM added.

According to information obtained from the Prime minister’s office, considering global trends, it is inevitable that cases will emerge in the country and therefore the public needs to be well aware of prevention precautions and keep calm.