This archive report was first published on 19 May 2020.
On May 18, 2020, Guinea Bissau reported a significant increase in Covid-19 cases, with 42 new positive tests bringing the total to 1,032, according to the health emergency operations centre.
Just a week prior, on April 30, the country had only 54 confirmed cases, highlighting the rapid spread of the virus.
With a population of less than two million people, the West African country has been severely impacted by the pandemic, with the capital Bissau being the hardest hit.
While officials have not disclosed the total number of tests conducted, 38 people have recovered and four have died as a result of the disease.
Ms Monica Negrete, head of the Doctors Without Borders (MSF) mission in Guinea Bissau, expressed concern over the situation, stating, 'It is important to involve more communities to fulfil preventive measures against the pandemic otherwise positive cases will increase.'
Responding to the crisis, the Catholic Church has announced a door-to-door sensitisation campaign to prevent the spread of the virus, which will begin on May 19. The campaign will also involve the distribution of 30,000 face masks countrywide.
Additionally, the Church will allow the government to use its hospitals to quarantine and treat Covid-19 patients, as part of the campaign headed by former Health minister Magda Robalo.
Guinea Bissau remains under lockdown until May 26, with a curfew in place from 8pm to 6am and residents only allowed to venture out into towns between 7am and 2pm.
