Covid-19 cases spike in Chiredzi

By Sukuoluhle Ndlovu

Masvingo- Chiredzi has recorded a surge in Covid-19 confirmed cases.

A total of 109 Covid-19 positive cases and two deaths were recorded in the province yesterday.

Chiredzi was recently classified as a Covid-19 hotspot.

According to the Ministry of Health and Child Care, 688 tests were done in the province yesterday and 153 were positive, Chiredzi 109, Bikita 9, Chivi 3, Gutu 9, Masvingo 6, Mwenezi 5 and Zaka 12. Total number of positive cases accumulating to 844 in the province with 77 deaths and 2 992 recoveries.

In an interview with Bustop TV, Masvingo Covid -19 Taskforce spokesperson, Rodgers Irimayi said, “cases are now rising in all areas but in Chiredzi testing is high as it is being facilitated by the sugar estate where workers are regularly tested. We are working on campaigns which we are doing through various activities which include hailing, radio programs, interpersonal communication at workplaces, religious, traditional and political leadership levels”.

He advised people to remain vigilant as complacency puts people at risk. The country has intensified restrictions on movement and continues to encourage adherence to standard measures such as masking up, sanitizing and maintaining social distance.

President Emmerson Mnangagwa imposed a level 4 national lockdown with stricter restrictions.

One resident, Akudzwe Dhliwayo said the rise in the cases was worrying.

“Cases are rising in the province and Chiredzi is worrisome. A lot needs to be done to fight the virus before the whole City is infected. Us as citizens we have to adhere to the regulations that were put in place as this might yield somethin positive, it is not easy but that is the only way to survive.”

He added, “people must also go and get vaccinated against the virus as this will also help in the fight against it and people should not listen to the discredits being spread on social media about the vaccine”.