The COVID19 virus is sweeping across the globe and most people are in despair. China being the epicentre of the pandemic has obviously been the hardest hit. Then there is Italy which reportedly has recorded several hundreds of deaths so far – gradually nearing one thousand. Locally there have been suspected cases but not one confirmed case. There have also been suspected and confirmed cases in quite a number of African countries. In light of this, African governments are stepping up efforts to prepare for the pandemic. In this article, I shall be discussing some pertinent details regarding some latest developments and other related details.
Some Preventive Guidelines To Know About COVID
The virus does not settle in the air but is rather grounded thus it is not transmitted by air per se. The virus is large in size, large enough to make any mask impervious to its entry. When the virus gets on one’s hands it can only survive for 10 minutes. So if you place an alcohol sterilizer in your pocket it kills it. Gargling salt water can kill the germs that would have reached the tonsils – this effectively bars the virus from proceeding to the lungs. When the virus gets on clothes it can survive for only 9 hours. Therefore two things can kill it in this instance namely, exposure to the sun and thoroughly washing the clothes. The virus dies if exposed to temperatures around 26 or 27 degrees Celsius. This means that it cannot survive in hot regions. I cannot help but think that the sudden hot weather currently being experienced in the country is divinely orchestrated. In the event that the virus gets on metal surfaces, it only survives for 12 hours. Washing thoroughly with water and soap deals with that scenario. It is also advisable to avoid close contact with people exhibiting any signs and symptoms.
Some African Nations Start Putting In Place Measures To Fight The Virus
The latest nation to issue to do this is our neighbouring South Africa. It has emerged that 61 cases have been confirmed and this means the transmission is now local i.e. it is not emanating from outside the country. They have issued travel bans on people from Europe, China, South Korea, USA, Iran, UK and Italy. It is because those countries are considered high-risk. In the same vein, they have also cancelled Visas of people from those same countries. They have also closed off 72 entry points, 35 borders and 2 seaports. Any gathering of people exceeding 100 is no longer allowed. For a whole month, there will be no prison visits. Then shopping malls have also been advised to beef up their hygiene frameworks.
Negative Socio-Economic Impacts Now Inevitable
There have been lots of deliberations on the possible impact of this pandemic on the social and economic livelihoods of people. Already the indications are clear that the effects of the pandemic will be far-reaching. If the current global trend continues then we just might be headed for a recession. Just recently Bitcoin lost roughly half of its value in just one day due to COVID19. Closing off of borders and restriction of movement will definitely slow down economic activity. Just imagine the implications of getting the SA border closed off.
Brace Yourself And Look Out For Opportunities
It is inevitable that most businesses and companies will be adversely affected. This, in turn, means jobs will be hurt in the process. In other countries, the effects are already being felt. With that said, it is important to then brace yourself for any such eventualities. Locally, I believe we shall not be affected to the degree that some nations have. However, it is still prudent to prepare for the worst if it ever comes to that.
Due to the possibility of travel and general movement restrictions, it is advisable to seriously consider operating online. This is vital for any business because if properly applied it can guarantee business continuity despite any such restrictions. This will be a win-win for the business, the employees and the staff. So I urge you to give this some thought.
Another thing to note is that the present circumstances or even the possibility of not-business-as-usual presents countless opportunities. There are products that have since become highly sought-after e.g. face masks, hand sanitizers and the like. Providing such products will mean big business moving forward. Think also along the lines that in the event of restricted movement people would need to have essentials delivered to their doorsteps, for instance.
The COVID19 virus has and is instilling fear in many people’s hearts but it is imperative that we be bold. As much as it seems locally there are no solid frameworks against the virus let us be equal to the task ourselves. Let us do as much as we can even just by simply sharing vital information. In the same vein let us also ruthlessly verify any piece of information before sharing it. One of the most prevalent things during times like these is fake news – let us all stay vigilant.
