Cases of coronavirus in Africa have been confirmed in 52 territories on the continent. One day ago, Egypt had the highest numbers in Africa but as at 27th April, South Africa recorded the highest numbers with 4,220 Confirmed cases, 1,473 Recovered and 79 Deaths. Countries yet to report a confirmed case of Coronavirus in Africa include Comoros and Lesotho. News of the first case of Coronavirus in Africa was confirmed on 14th February 2020 in Egypt.

Below is a data visualisation on how the virus has spread across the continent Today. The infographic shows countries with the top 20 number of Cases, Recoveries and Deaths due to Coronavirus in Africa, updated on 27th April, 2020 (For informational purposes only. Consult your local medical authority or visit the WHO website for further advice.):

Top 20 Cases of Coronavirus in Africa:

Algeria has the highest number of Deaths at 425, while South Africa has the highest number of confirmed patients at 4,546 and recovered patients at 1,473 of Coronavirus in Africa. Below is a detailed table with statistics from the top 20 most affected African countries as at 27th April 2020 (1300 +3 GMT):

No. Country Confirmed Recovered Deaths 1. South Africa 4,546 1,473 87 2. Egypt 4,534 1,176 317 3. Morocco 4,065 593 161 4. Algeria 3,382 1,508 425 5. Cameroon 1,621 786 56 6. Ghana 1,550 155 11 7. Côte d’Ivoire 1,150 468 14 8. Djibouti 1,023 411 2 9. Nigeria 1,273 239 40 10. Tunisia 949 216 38 11. Guinea 996 208 7 12. Niger 696 350 29 13. Burkina Faso 632 453 42 14. Senegal 671 283 8 15. Congo (Kinshasa) 442 50 28 16. Kenya 363 114 14 17. Mauritius 332 299 9 18. Somalia 436 10 23 19. Mali 389 112 23 20. Tanzania 300 48 10 Coronavirus in Africa Statistics (27th April 2020) Source: African Arguments

Flattening the Curve of Coronavirus in Africa

VIRAL TIMELINE Coronavirus symptoms day-by-day timeline – when to expect signs of the killer bug to strike

African countries are face implementing mitigation measures to prevent the spread of the coronavirus within their territories. These measures include curfews, lockdowns, flight restrictions, border closures and banning of public gatherings.

The curve the whole world is talking about is the projection of confirmed cases of COVID-19 over a period of time. The graph represents the number of people who have contracted the disease, on the vertical axis, for each day since the first case, on the horizontal axis.

A high curve is created by a steep increase in the number of cases per day until a peak and then a decline in daily infections. Flattening the curve is essentially introducing interventions such as social distancing, hand-washing, and lockdowns to reduce the potential spread of infection and prevent healthcare systems from being overburdened by cases all at once.

Snapshot comparing Kenya and the world Coronavirus Cases

Breaking News about Coronavirus in Africa – Different Countries

News about Coronavirus in Kenya:

News about Coronavirus in South Africa:

1. Reported case of Coronavirus infection at Unisa

The University of South Africa (Unisa) says it has closed its doors for today and sent staff and students home ‘in the interests of safety.

A professor in one of Unisa’s departments has tested positive for the Coronavirus. This was confirmed by his doctor soon after he received the results of the test. He reported the matter to his line manager and informed colleagues with whom he had had contact after his return.

He indicated that he was not certain about when or where he was infected, as he had just returned from George, Western Cape, as he was on leave. On 18 March 2020, he came to the office and reported that he was not feeling well, and has been booked off since then. Since he received confirmation of the infection, he has been recovering at home.

Read More at University of South Africa

2. Absa launches COVID-19 payment relief plan and partnership with SAFT shows commitment to SMMEs

_Mail & Guardian An unprecedented crisis- The economic ramifications of Covid-19

On Monday, 23 March 2020, the President of South Africa, Cyril Ramaphosa, declared a national lockdown to slow down the spread of COVID-19. Decisive action is essential to protect human health and life, and socio-economic sustainability. Absa therefore supports the measures announced by the President.

In a sign of unwavering support for Small, Medium and Micro-sized Enterprises (SMMEs), communities and the economy at large, Absa has partnered with the South African Future Trust (SAFT) to administer the disbursement of funds to SMME employees whose income will be impacted in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic.

As South Africa and the world confront the public health, financial and economic implications of the COVID-19 pandemic, Absa Group is rolling out an extensive relief plan for eligible customers impacted by COVID-19. Eligible customers in need of short-term liquidity relief will qualify for the relief plan that applies to Absa’s credit products.

Read More on Absa South Africa

3. President Cyril Ramaphosa announced R500 billion economic support package

21 hours ago allAfrica.com South African President Announces Gradual Lifting of Lockdown

President Cyril Ramaphosa in a televised address on Tuesday evening announced a massive R500 billion economic support package to help the country survive the Covid-19 pandemic.

Key announcements include an additional R50 billion towards social grants, R200 billion in guaranteed loans to small businesses, and R20 billion towards managing the outbreak of the virus in South Africa.

Ramaphosa said starting in May, child grant beneficiaries will receive an additional R300, and R500 for the five months thereafter.

For more information direct from the source, see also:the official Covid-19 website for South African government information and updates

Read More on Business Insider South Africa

News about Coronavirus in Egypt:

1. Pompeo urges Egypt to keep US prisoners safe from coronavirus

In Egypt, coronavirus has killed 276 people and infected more than 3,600, the WHO says [File- Andrew Harnik-Reuters]

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo stressed to his Egyptian counterpart that Americans detained in Egypt should be kept safe during the coronavirus pandemic.

The State Department on Thursday did not give any details about US prisoners, but three Americans held in Egypt were mentioned in a letter by a bipartisan group of US senators sent to Pompeo this month, asking him to call for the release of Americans detained in several countries, citing the risk from the virus.

Read More at Aljazeera

2. Egypt warns of ’tougher measures’ if coronavirus crisis worsens

Coronavirus Under Control_ Egypt’s Latest Giant Problem Awaits

Egyptian President Abdel Fattah Al-Sisi yesterday urged citizens to follow “government measures” in order to prevent the spread of the novel coronavirus. “If we have achieved success over the past period, we don’t want to lose what we have done during the next few weeks,” Al-Sisi said.

Addressing the nation, he called on Egyptians to “pay attention to the crisis during the current period more than before,” warning of “tougher measures if the coronavirus crisis develops”.

Egypt has so far recorded 3,891 infection cases, 276 of whom have died, according to Health Ministry official data. However Canadian researchers believe the number to be significantly higher amid questions that the government is covering up the extent of infections.

Read More at Middle-east Monitor

3. WHO expects Africa to witness peak coronavirus cases in coming weeks

WHO expects Africa to witness peak coronavirus cases in coming weeks

Officials from the World Health Organization said that some African countries may experience peak coronavirus infection in the coming weeks, and urged the region to step up detection efforts.

“We can see that the numbers have already doubled during the last four days,” said Michel Yao, Emergency Operations Program Manager of the WHO’s Regional Office for Africa. “With what we’ve learned from what happened in China and Europe, if this trend continues, some [African] countries may face a sizeable peak very soon,” he said.

“Without assistance and action now, poorer countries and vulnerable communities could be devastated. Infection numbers in Africa are currently relatively low, but they are growing fast,” said WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus.

Read More at Egypt Independent

News about Coronavirus in Morocco:

1. Moroccan prison becomes coronavirus hotspot

COVID-19- Moroccan prison becomes coronavirus hotspot

Rabat: Sixty-eight people, mostly staff, have come down with the coronavirus at a prison in the southern Moroccan city of Ouarzazate, prison authorities said on Tuesday, without reporting any deaths. Earlier this month Morocco released 5,645 prisoners – some of them in poor health – to help reduce the risk of the coronavirus spreading in its prisons as has happened in other countries.

At the Ouarzazate facility, at least six inmates were among those to have contracted the coronavirus and all were now undergoing testing, a prison statement said. Morocco has confirmed 3,186 cases of the COVID-19 lung disease including 144 deaths. It has imposed a lockdown on public life that has been extended until May 20, and made the wearing of face masks in public compulsory.

Read More at Gulf News

2. Can Morocco Effectively Handle the COVID-19 Crisis?

A general view of empty stores during curfew as a precaution against the new type of coronavirus (COVID-19) in Rabat, Morocco on 1 April 2020. Photo by Jalal Morchidi:Anadolu Agency via Getty Images.

In Morocco, the COVID-19 pandemic has increased public trust in government, but people still have doubts about the effectiveness of the healthcare system. According to a recent study conducted by the Moroccan Institute for Policy Analysis (MIPA), the majority of Moroccans surveyed are generally satisfied with the measures taken by the government to battle the coronavirus. However, the same survey also shows that Moroccans do not have confidence in the healthcare sector’s ability to respond to this pandemic.

The positive perceptions of the government’s response can be explained by the swift and strict measures enacted. King Mohammed VI held a high-level meeting with the prime minister, the minister of health, and top security officials on 17 March and a few days later, on 20 March, the Moroccan government declared a state of health emergency and began to implement aggressive measures to contain the virus.

Read More on the Chatham House

3. Morocco Sets Ramadan Curfew Restricting Movement From 7 p.m. to 5 a.m.

Morocco Sets Ramadan Curfew Restricting Movement From 7 p.m. to 5 a.m.

Rabat – The Ministry of Interior announced today, April 23, that Moroccans will have authorized movement for an additional two hours during Ramadan. Morocco’s current curfew is from 6 p.m. to 6 a.m. Beginning Saturday, April 25, curfew will run from 7 p.m. to 5 a.m. for the duration of the holy month. The move comes “in the context of strengthening the measures of the state of health emergency,” the ministry said in a statement.

Under the regulation, outdoor circulation is strictly forbidden after the curfew, with the exception of individuals with work authorization in addition to an exceptional movement permit. The ministry emphasized that anyone caught outdoors without permission will face legal action in accordance with the provisions related to the health emergency.

Moroccan authorities declared a state of emergency on March 19, shortly after health officials confirmed the country’s 63rd case. The emergency state entered into force on March 20, restricting movement in public spaces to stem the spread of COVID-19. The nationwide lockdown is effective until May 20.

Read More on Morocco World News

Coronavirus in Africa Visualised Statistics and Updates (25th April 2020)

International News about Coronavirus in Africa

Coronavirus Overview:

Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is an infectious disease caused by a newly discovered coronavirus. Most people who fall sick with COVID-19 will experience mild to moderate symptoms and recover without special treatment.

The virus that causes COVID-19 is mainly transmitted through droplets generated when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or exhales. These droplets are too heavy to hang in the air, and quickly fall on floors or surfaces.

Covid Kenya Satistics Update via Google Maps

Coronavirus Symptoms:

COVID-19 affects different people in different ways. Most infected people will develop mild to moderate symptoms.

Common symptoms:

fever.

tiredness.

dry cough.

Some people may experience:

aches and pains.

nasal congestion.

runny nose.

sore throat.

diarrhoea.

Signs and Symptoms Republic of Kenya Ministry of Health

On average it takes 5–6 days from when someone is infected with the virus for symptoms to show, however it can take up to 14 days.

People with mild symptoms who are otherwise healthy should self-isolate. Seek medical attention if you have a fever, a cough, and difficulty breathing.

What are the differences between COVID-19 and Cold and the flu?

What are the differences between COVID-19 and the flu_

COVID-19 and the flu can cause similar symptoms. However, there are several differences between them. The novel strain of coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2) causes coronavirus disease 19 (COVID-19). Both COVID-19 and the flu are respiratory illnesses that spread from person to person.

The symptoms of the flu and COVID-19 have some differences. People who have the flu will typically experience symptoms within 1–4 days. The symptoms for COVID-19 can develop between 1–14 days. However, according to 2020 research, the median incubation period for COVID-19 is 5.1 days.

As a point of comparison, the incubation period for a cold is 1–3 days. The symptoms of COVID-19 are similar in both children and adults. However, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), children typically present with fever and mild, cold-like symptoms, such as a runny nose and a cough.

While colds and flu are technically present year-round in the US, their busy season begins ramping up in October and tends to peak between December and February, sometimes lasting until May, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. But this year, in addition to being worried about influenza and other respiratory viruses, people are especially worried about COVID-19—the symptoms of which, unfortunately, look very similar to those that accompany colds and flu.

Coronavirus Symptoms vs Flu and Cold Symptoms

The following table outlines the symptoms of COVID-19, the flu, and a cold.

Difference between cold flu COVID ADD Allergies

Coronavirus Symptoms in Children

Keep children healthy:

Watch your child for any signs of illness

If you see any sign of illness consistent with symptoms of COVID-19, particularly fever, cough, or shortness of breath, call your healthcare provider and keep your child at home and away from others as much as possible. Follow CDC’s guidance on what to do if you are sick.

Watch for signs of stress in your child

Some common changes to watch for include excessive worry or sadness, unhealthy eating or sleeping habits, and difficulty with attention and concentration. For more information, see the “For Parents” section of CDC’s Stress and Coping.

Take time to talk with your child or teen about the COVID-19 outbreak. Answer questions and share facts about COVID-19 in a way that your child or teen can understand.

Go to CDC’s Helping Children Cope with Emergencies or Talking with Children About COVID-19 for more information.

Covid Kenya Satistics Update via Google Maps

Teach and reinforce everyday preventive actions

Parents and caretakers play an important role in teaching children to wash their hands. Explain that hand washing can keep them healthy and stop the virus from spreading to others.

Be a good role model—if you wash your hands often, they’re more likely to do the same.

Make handwashing a family activity.

Learn more about handwashing and other everyday preventive actions.

Help your child stay active

Encourage your child to play outdoors—it’s great for physical and mental health. Take a walk with your child or go on a bike ride.

Use indoor activity breaks (like stretch breaks or dance breaks) throughout the day to help your child stay healthy and focused.

Help your child stay socially connected

Reach out to friends and family via phone or video chats.

Write cards or letters to family members they may not be able to visit.

Some schools and non-profits, such as the Collaborative for Academic, Social, and Emotional Learningexternal icon and The Yale Center for Emotional Intelligenceexternal icon, have resources for social and emotional learning. Check to see if your school has tips and guidelines to help support social and emotional needs of your child.

New covid-19 cases rise but deaths remain stable – Nation

Coronavirus: The four stages of a global pandemic

Here are the 4 stages of a pandemic and what each stage entails:

Stage 1: In the first stage of a pandemic, the disease doesn’t spread locally – cases reported are usually people who have had travel history to an already affected country.

In the first stage of a pandemic, the disease doesn’t spread locally – cases reported are usually people who have had travel history to an already affected country. Stage 2: This is the stage of local transmission – when people who have brought the virus into the country transmit it to people they come in contact with, usually friends and family. At this stage, it is easy to trace spread and quarantine people.

This is the stage of local transmission – when people who have brought the virus into the country transmit it to people they come in contact with, usually friends and family. At this stage, it is easy to trace spread and quarantine people. Stage 3: The third stage is when the source of the infection is untraceable; this stage is identified by people who haven’t had travel history getting affected by the virus – once here spread is extremely contagious and difficult to control.

The third stage is when the source of the infection is untraceable; this stage is identified by people who haven’t had travel history getting affected by the virus – once here spread is extremely contagious and difficult to control. Stage 4: So far, China, USA and Italy have been the only countries to experience Stage 4, where spread seems practically uncontrollable and there are many major clusters of infection all over the country.

coronavirus stages development timeline

Coronavirus Progressive Day-to-Day Timeline:

REPORTED illnesses of coronavirus have ranged from mild symptoms to severe illness and death. And now scientists have produced a day-by-day breakdown of the typical Covid-19 symptoms – to help people better understand the nature of the illness.

Here is a Progressive Day-to-Day Timeline of how the Coronavirus affects patients:

Progressive Day-to-Day Timeline

Day 1: For most people, the first symptoms will be fever (temperature above 100 degrees Fahrenheit) and/or cough, which is usually dry to start with. Day 5: A team of researchers who studied 138 patients with Covid-19 at the Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University found that on average it took five days for people to develop signs of breathing difficulties – from displaying the first symptoms. Day 7: As Dr. Jarvis says, “For most people, most symptoms will have settled within a week.” About 85 percent of people diagnosed with coronavirus will see their symptoms start to diminish by day seven and coming out of isolation is a possibility. Day 8: Patients with severe cases tend to develop signs of acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) at this point. ARDS is a life-threatening condition where the lungs can’t provide the body’s vital organs with enough oxygen. Day 10: Patients with worsening breathing problems tend to be entered into an intensive care unit at day ten. The Wuhan study also said it observed that the average hospital stay was ten days. Day 12: By day 12, fever – an early sign of Covid-19 – would typically end. However, a cough associated with the illness may stay around for longer, the scientists found. In fact, 45 percent of the 191 patients who were looked at still had a cough on discharge after the 12 day period. Day 13 Dyspnoea – shortness of breath – tends to cease after about 13 days for those who survive, though it will continue until point of death for those who didn’t. Day 18: From illness onset, the average time to death was 18.5 days. Day 22: The average time to discharge was 22 days. Currently, there is no vaccine to protect people against the virus.

Coronavirus Prevention:

Stay Home Save Lives – Google Public Service Announcement – Flattening the Curve of Coronavirus in Africa and the World

Protect yourself and others around you by knowing the facts and taking appropriate precautions. Follow advice provided by your local public health agency.

To prevent the spread of COVID-19:

Clean your hands often. Use soap and water, or an alcohol-based hand rub.

Maintain a safe distance from anyone who is coughing or sneezing.

Don’t touch your eyes, nose or mouth.

Cover your nose and mouth with your bent elbow or a tissue when you cough or sneeze.

Stay home if you feel unwell.

If you have a fever, a cough, and difficulty breathing, seek medical attention. Call in advance.

Follow the directions of your local health authority.

Avoiding unneeded visits to medical facilities allows healthcare systems to operate more effectively, therefore protecting you and others. Learn more on who.int

Coronavirus Treatment:

To date, there are no specific vaccines or medicines for COVID-19. Treatments are under investigation, and will be tested through clinical trials.

Is Coronavirus a major public health threat

Self care

If you feel sick you should rest, drink plenty of fluid, and eat nutritious food. Stay in a separate room from other family members, and use a dedicated bathroom if possible. Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces.

Everyone should keep a healthy lifestyle at home. Maintain a healthy diet, sleep, stay active, and make social contact with loved ones through the phone or internet. Children need extra love and attention from adults during difficult times. Keep to regular routines and schedules as much as possible.

It is normal to feel sad, stressed, or confused during a crisis. Talking to people you trust, such as friends and family, can help. If you feel overwhelmed, talk to a health worker or counsellor.

Infographic from The Elephant showing spread of Coronavirus in Africa

Medical treatments

If you have mild symptoms and are otherwise healthy, self-isolate and contact your medical provider or a COVID-19 information line for advice.

Seek medical care if you have a fever, a cough, and difficulty breathing. Call in advance. For informational purposes only. Consult your local medical authority for advice. Source: World Health Organization