If emergency measures are not taken, the coronavirus could kill 1.5 million people in Africa. In addition, more than 200 million people on the continent could be infected. The data came from a recent study by the World Health Organization (WHO). The research article was published in BMJ Global Health journal on Friday.
Researchers predict that the rate of infection in Africa may be lower than in the United States or Europe. Deaths and complications also may be relatively low also. Researchers also said many African countries have already taken swift action against COVID-19. Yet the health system here can be hit hard.
Experts from the WHO’s Africa office have modeled the virus infection and its potential transmission rates in 47 countries at the regional level. It excludes Djibouti, Egypt, Libya, Morocco, Somalia, Sudan, and Tunisia.
According to the model, within 12 months, 231 million or 22 percent of people will be infected, with little or no symptoms. Of this, 48 lakh people may need hospital support. According to the report, about 88% of people will not recognize they have the virus.
Researchers have called on countries in the African region to rapidly increase their ability to provide services in the health sector, especially in primary hospitals.
