Burkina Faso: Authorities close schools until at least March 31 due to COVID-19 /update 2

Event

Burkinabe authorities announced on Saturday, March 14, that all schools will be closed until at least Tuesday, March 31, to limit the spread of coronavirus (COVID-19).

Authorities earlier announced a ban on all demonstrations and public gatherings until at least Thursday, April 30.

In an effort to limit the outbreak on Burkinabe territory, thermal cameras are being used in the country's airports, and border control  measures have been enhanced.

As of Tuesday, March 17, there are 20 confirmed cases of COVID-19 nationwide. Further spread of the virus expected in the near term.

Context

The first case of COVID-19 was reported on December 31 and the source of the outbreak has been linked to a wet market in Wuhan (Hubei province, China). Human-to-human and patient-to-medical staff transmission of the virus have been confirmed. Many of the associated fatalities have been due to pneumonia caused by the virus.

Cases of the virus have been confirmed in numerous countries and territories worldwide. Virus-screening and quarantining measures are being implemented at airports worldwide, as well as extensive travel restrictions. On March 11, the World Health Organization (WHO) declared COVID-19 a pandemic.

Pneumonia symptoms include dry cough, chest pain, fever, and labored breathing. Pneumonia can be contagious and can be transmitted from human to human. The influenza virus, or the flu, is a common cause of viral pneumonia.

Advice

To reduce the risk of transmission, travelers are advised to abide by the following measures:

• Frequently clean hands by applying an alcohol-based hand rub or washing with soap and water.
• When coughing and sneezing, cover mouth and nose with a flexed elbow or tissue; if used, throw the tissue away immediately and wash hands.
• If experiencing a fever, cough, difficulty breathing, or any other symptoms suggestive of respiratory illness, including pneumonia, call emergency services before going to the doctor or hospital to prevent the potential spread of the virus.