HH Criticises Government Provision of Protective Equipment to Medical Staff

UPND Leader Hakainde Hichilema has criticised the government’s inadequacy in supplying protective equipment to health workers, after news broke that five more medical staff have tested positive for Covid-19. 

Mr Hichilema said the government owes it to medical staff to do the right thing and provide the necessary protective equipment for those on the frontlines of the current pandemic. 

The UPND leader offered his support to health workers at this trying time.

“Our thoughts and prayers go to you all our health workers who are working tirelessly to combat this deadly pandemic,” he said. 

HH also encouraged those who had contracted the coronavirus to remain positive and to never lose hope in their fight against the disease.

His comments come after Health Minister Dr Chitalu Chilufya confirmed yesterday that five health workers at isolation facilities had tested positive for the virus, bringing the total number of affected health workers to 8. 

The Health Minister revealed that all the infected workers had been placed in designated isolation facilities. He went on to wish them a speedy recovery. 

“I would love to encourage and urge the health workers to remain strong as we stand with you and we are confident that you will recover. We encourage you to put in your level best and as a government, we will continue to improve your welfare,” Dr. Chilufya said

The Minister also announced that further mass screenings would be taking place in Emmasdale and Chaisa, with a further 15,000 face masks to be handed out to market traders.

The total number of coronavirus cases in Zambia has now climbed to 74, with three deaths since the outbreak began in March.