COVID-19 has been less deadly in Africa than medical scientists predicted. They previously advanced a variety of reasons including poor communications, overcrowding in informal settlements, and poor health care. The pandemic happened but not the disaster.
Are there lessons we can learn from this? Partnership for Evidence-based Response to Covid-19 (PERC) published a report explaining the differences
COVID-19 Has Been Less Deadly in Africa Because of Public Support
Immediate & Effective Action
African governments took quick action when the coronavirus reached Africa’s shores via international travel. Swift public measures included closing airports, avoiding handshakes, frequent hand-washing, wearing face masks and maintaining social distances.
Public Support
Public support for these measures was high. African Union member states were able to contain the virus between March and May, PERC says. That’s because they implemented strict public health and social measures.
These however came at great cost. Many jobs were lost necessitating relaxing of restrictions. This coincided with an increase in reported cases.
How Favorable Preconditions Supported These Measures
A Young Population with Extended Families
Most people that died globally were over 80, according to Partnership for Evidence-based Response. Africa has a young population with a median age of 19 years. Moreover old age homes are not part of the indigenous culture. Families care for their seniors.
World Health Organization says some 91% of Sub-Saharan infections affected people below 60 years. Over 80% of them were asymptomatic, meaning they could get on with their lives.
Robust Community Health and a Wholesome Climate
Africa has been through several epidemics lately, including Polio, Ebola and HIV/Aids. As a consequence, COVID-19 came up against robust testing and tracing systems and these helped beat it back.
There is an established correlation between temperature, humidity and latitude, senior correspondent Anne Soy explains in BBC Africa. The heartland of the continent was in dry winter conditions when the virus struck. Yet COVID-19 has been less deadly in Africa (with the exception of South Africa) perhaps because of the other factors.
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Preview Image: Total Confirmed Deaths per Million
