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Health

Senegal's Pilgrims Face COVID-19 Challenge upon Return from Holy Sites

Monday 24 June 2024 - 09:55

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Reports from the Senegalese Press Agency (APS) on Sunday evening indicate a troubling development: multiple cases of COVID-19 have been detected among Senegalese pilgrims returning from Saudi Arabia. Tests conducted on the pilgrims confirm the presence of the coronavirus, with positivity rates varying between 20% and 60%, depending on the flight.

In response to this concerning situation, Senegalese health authorities have swiftly implemented a robust health protocol for screening and managing the identified cases, as reported by APS.

Charles Bernard Sagna, the chief medical officer of the health control service at the Blaise Diagne International Airport (AIBD), cited by APS, affirmed that pilgrims returning from the holy sites of Islam have been diagnosed with a positivity rate ranging from 20% to 60% for the coronavirus across different flights.

Sagna emphasized, "The goal of these preventive measures against this disease is to avoid an uncontrolled epidemic in the country."

"There are reasons to be concerned about the pilgrims arriving in the country," he warned.

To date, AIBD has received seven flights carrying pilgrims returning from the holy sites of Islam in Saudi Arabia.

In response to this alarming development, Senegalese health authorities have mobilized resources to implement a comprehensive screening and management strategy. Rapid identification and isolation of positive cases are crucial steps to curb the potential spread of the virus within the country.

The challenge now lies in ensuring efficient contact tracing, quarantine measures, and medical care for those affected, while simultaneously raising awareness and enforcing preventive guidelines among the returning pilgrims and the broader population.

As Senegal grapples with this resurgence of COVID-19 cases, the nation's resilience and commitment to public health will be tested. Stringent protocols and unwavering vigilance will be pivotal in containing the virus's transmission and safeguarding the well-being of all citizens.

This situation underscores the ongoing battle against the global pandemic and emphasizes the need for collective action, both domestically and internationally, to combat the ever-evolving threat posed by COVID-19. Senegal's response to this challenge will undoubtedly serve as a testament to the nation's preparedness and determination to protect its people.