Gambian doctors have criticised President Adama Barrow for disregarding the very regulations he set to curb the spread of the coronavirus pandemic.
On Wednesday, the Association of Resident Doctors – The Gambia, GARD, said they are “disappointed” by the lack of public interest in following coronavirus-curbing measures and government officials disregarding rules as simple as avoiding public gatherings.
The criticism comes as president Barrow organised and presided over the state funeral of legendary Gambian footballer, Alhagie Momodou Njie (Biri Biri), on July 22. The funeral was attended by hundreds of people, as locally-transmitted coronavirus cases rise daily.
“We are deeply saddened to notice government officials allowing public gatherings to be held without proper social distancing and absence of the usage of masks,” GARD President, Dr. Musa Marena, said in a statement.
Marena also said it is “disheartening” to notice that measures on social distancing, wearing of masks and avoiding public gatherings are not being respected by the public.
The Gambia, which has a poorly-equipped health system, recorded its first case of coronavirus on March 17, and as of July 23, there are 170 confirmed cases with 101 active, 58 recoveries and five deaths. Two cases have since absconded while four others left the country.
In one week (from July 16 when the first double digit cases were reported), 106 cases have been confirmed of the coronavirus, according to figures from the ministry of health.
Those infected include 10 doctors, 12 nurses and 15 health support staff. More than 60 health workers are currently in quarantine. Two healthcare workers have died from the virus.
According to GARD, the data reflects over 70% increase in the number of coronavirus cases reported in the last 20 days. Doctors fear the health system will crumble.
“Events such as political rallies, open markets, ceremonies and state burials are still being held despite the daily increase in cases,” GARD Secretary General, Dr. Ramatoulie Drammeh, said.
Drammeh said if care is not taken, the health fraternity “will crumble and lose its stand” in the fight against the virus and all other illnesses.
The doctors said they want coronavirus measures reinforced in order to flatten the curve. “We have to ensure the public wear face masks, observe social distancing and practice proper hand hygiene,” the body of medical practitioners said.
The surge in coronavirus cases began in recent weeks as the government allowed Brussels Airline to continue flying in coronavirus patients into the country.
