WHO warns African countries against easing Covid restrictions

The World Health Organization (WHO), has warned African countries leaders against easing restrictions against the coronavirus pandemic.

The WHO is concerned as most African countries are rolling back Covid-19 surveillance and quarantine measures.

It says this is especially “worrisome in a continent that still has the lowest rates of vaccination in the world”.

“It is a matter of concern that nearly half of all countries in Africa have stopped tracing the contacts of cases. This, along with robust testing, is the backbone of any pandemic response”, said WHO’s Regional Director for Africa, Matshidiso Moeti, in a virtual press conference on Thursday.

The WHO’s caution comes amid a recent spike in Covid cases in other parts of the world.

“Lifting the public health measures does not mean lifting the foot off the pedal of pandemic vigilance,” Dr Moeti said.