Suburban
Harare residents must take heed of the police and Government’s calls to continue observing the Covid-19 regulations despite the relaxation of the measures because the pandemic remains a threat not only to residents of the capital but the entirety of Zimbabwe.
Residents of the capital city have to do their part in ensuring the city arrests threats of a third wave of the Covid-19 pandemic. Although Zimbabwe has been commended as one of the countries handling the Covid-19 pandemic in an exemplary way, people should not let complacency creep in.
This week the Zimbabwe Republic Police had to remind the country that the Covid-19 public health and lockdown regulations, although more relaxed than at the peak of infection waves, are still being enforced and urged the nation to take them seriously to prevent a third wave.
Almost all sectors of the economy are now allowed to operate although restrictions remain on religious and social gatherings while bars and nightclubs remain closed. Schools have also been opened and pupils are currently on holiday until June 27.
Covid-19 protocols such as wearing face masks covering the nose and mouth while in public, maintaining social distancing and sanitising hands at entrances to business premises such as shops, supermarkets and banks must continue to be observed by all of us. In addition, residents and businesses must also respect the 10pm to 5.30am curfew.
Police say some bars and nightclubs have been operating in flagrant violation of the Covid-19 regulations. It is at these bars and nightclubs where patrons end up removing their masks and do not pay attention to maintaining social distancing given the nature of imbibing and partying.
We urge bar and nightclub owners to desist from violation of the regulations because the Covid-19 pandemic is far from over. It is also advisable for people to get vaccinated against the virus. A lot of misconceptions are being peddled particularly on social media platforms but we urge people to follow the advice of health authorities because it is based on scientific research unlike posts or messages on social media.
Developments in some countries closer to home such as South Africa and Uganda have shown that the Covid-19 pandemic is still within our midst because the moment people relax, new infections start to spike. This is the reason why the Government has banned any face to face holiday lessons for school learners because the Covid-19 threat remains real.
Schools have been urged to conduct online or distance learning should there be need for extra lessons for their students. We urge Harare residents to continue to adhere to the Covid-19 regulations particularly now that we are in our winter season. It is imperative that all of us do their part in ensuring our own safety, that of our families, friends, workmates and the public at large.
Let us all be responsible and prevent spreading the coronavirus. In the meantime, when vaccines are available it is wise for one to get their jab because when medical scientists make vaccines and drugs, their intention is to help the world and they are not driven by any ulterior motives.
