COVID-19 in Africa: The cost of perceived low incidence rates

Abstract

COVID-19 is a viral disease caused by the novel coronavirus and has hit many countries of the world heavily. The impact of COVID-19 in Africa, is contrary to the experts and professional predictions. Most African have very poor healthcare systems, water supply, sanitary environment and other factors that are requisite to combating the spread of the virus. Reports on COVID-19 incidence from Africa may not be a true reflection of the actual situation. The poor health information management system predominant in most African countries and the inability to carry out effective testing for cases could be responsible for this reported low incidence rates. The implications of perceived low incidence constitute a burden to governments of nations, health care workers, educational and other institutions, communities, women and girls; as well as members of the population. As the virus spreads across Africa, there is a need to improve active case finding and report same to enable effective planning and resource mobilization towards containing the spread of the virus.