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As Muslims around the World and in particular The Gambia celebrate Eid Al-Fitr commonly known as ‘Koriteh’ on Thursday 13th May 2021, the Ministry of Health hereby urges all citizens and people residing in The Gambia to follow the precautionary measures recommended for the prevention and control of COVID-19.The public is hereby reminded that, the Coronavirus spreads primarily by human to human through secretions of saliva and respiratory droplets which are produced when an infected person coughs, sneezes, speaks or sings. Infections can also occur when contaminated surfaces are touched and then to the mouth, nose or eyes without cleaning the hands. In marking the Eid celebration within the context of the COVID-19 pandemic, there is an urgent need for the public to be mindful of practices that are likely to contribute to the transmission of the virus.
The Ministry of Health calls for strict adherence to the following standard measures to reduce the transmission of COVID-19 namely: regular wearing of proper face mask preferably made of fabric when in public; avoid where necessary crowds or observing physical distancing aimed at interrupting transmission by reducing close interaction among the population; washing of hands with clean water and soap regularly or using sanitizers with an alcohol base to clean hands; and using the flexed elbow each time one sneezes or coughs.
The Ministry however, wish to clarify that relaxing the state of public emergency does not suggest that the coronavirus has disappeared in this country nor does it highlight a significant decrease in reported cases, thus it is vital that we continue to remain committed and maintain the gains initially registered.
Moreover, the public is hereby reminded that, the PUBLIC HEALTH (DANGEROUS INFECTIOUS DISEASES) PROTECTION REGULATIONS, 2020 has been promulgated and provisions enshrined in the Regulations empowers the Minister of Health to institutes strict measures as when and where necessary.
The success of slowing down or limiting the transmission or importation of the virus at first phase indicated the extent of cooperation by the public. However, this may change if the recommended measures are not observed especially during this period of Eid prayer with its associated events such as social visits and other places that attract mass gathering. Undoubtedly, the wave of reported cases of COVID 19 will depend largely on public adherence to the guidelines provided by the Ministry of Health and its partners.
Meanwhile, the Ministry of Health in collaboration with its partners assure the general public that, appropriate, affordable and quality health service delivery will continue to be provided at all times without comprising the approved standards. The public is encouraged to call the Ministry of Health Toll-Free Number 1025 to report suspected cases of COVID-19 and related matters.
In conclusion, the Ministry of Health is soliciting the continuous support and cooperation of the general public in its efforts to contain COVID-19 and also in addressing health care needs of the population. The Ministry therefore appeal to the general public to adhere to the COVID-19 precautionary measures at all times and as well as get vaccinated at the nearest health facility at no cost.
Stay alert is one of the most powerful step in the fight against COVID 19, thus, to all those celebrating please stay safe and Eid Mubarak. Ministry of Health wish everyone an enjoyable and healthy Eid celebration.
Signed:
Mr. Modou Njai
Director of Health Promotion & Education