This archive report was first published on 11 June 2020.
On June 11, 2020, the World Health Organization (WHO) warned that the COVID-19 pandemic is accelerating in Africa, with the continent reaching 200,000 confirmed cases in just 18 days.
According to the WHO, it took 98 days to reach the first 100,000 cases, and the speed at which the pandemic is spreading is a cause for concern.
Dr. Matshidiso Moeti, the WHO's regional director for Africa, stated, 'Even though these cases in Africa account for less than three percent of the global total, it's clear that the pandemic is accelerating.'
The WHO reported that Africa has reached 5,635 deaths from 210,519 confirmed cases, with South Africa being the worst affected country, accounting for nearly 25 percent of the continent's total cases.
Dr. Moeti attributed the spread of the virus to international flights from Europe, which have introduced the virus to capitals across the continent.
She emphasized the need for constant vigilance and strong public health measures to manage the pandemic, particularly in hotspots such as South Africa, Algeria, and Cameroon.
The WHO is hoping to avoid health systems being overwhelmed with large numbers of people who are ill.
