The COVID-19 pandemic in the African continent

Godfrey Bwire, Alex Riolexus Ario, Patricia Eyu, Felix Ocom, Joseph F. Wamala, Kwadwo A. Kusi, Latif Ndeketa, Kondwani C. Jambo, Rhoda K. Wanyenze, Ambrose O. Talisuna

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

68 Citations (Scopus)

Abstract

In December 2019, a new coronavirus, severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) and associated disease, coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), was identified in China. This virus spread quickly and in March, 2020, it was declared a pandemic. Scientists predicted the worst scenario to occur in Africa since it was the least developed of the continents in terms of human development index, lagged behind others in achievement of the United Nations sustainable development goals (SDGs), has inadequate resources for provision of social services, and has many fragile states. In addition, there were relatively few research reporting findings on COVID-19 in Africa. On the contrary, the more developed countries reported higher disease incidences and mortality rates. However, for Africa, the earlier predictions and modelling into COVID-19 incidence and mortality did not fit into the reality. Therefore, the main objective of this forum is to bring together infectious diseases and public health experts to give an overview of COVID-19 in Africa and share their thoughts and opinions on why Africa behaved the way it did. Furthermore, the experts highlight what needs to be done to support Africa to consolidate the status quo and overcome the negative effects of COVID-19 so as to accelerate attainment of the SDGs.

Original languageEnglish
Article number167
JournalBMC Medicine
Volume20
Issue number1
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - Dec 2022
Externally publishedYes

Keywords

  • Africa
  • COVID
  • Coronavirus
  • Coverage
  • Epidemiology
  • Essential health services
  • Health
  • Immunity
  • Infectious disease
  • Pandemic
  • Vaccination

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