UNICEF Malawi COVID-19 Situation Report 7 April

About

Highlights

• The first three COVID-19 cases were confirmed on 2 April in Lilongwe. As of 7 April, a total of eight cases have been registered (3 in Lilongwe, 4 in Blantyre and 1 in Chikwawa).
• With the UK Aid funding, UNICEF supported the Government to calibrate the existing reverse transcription–polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) machine, one of the most accurate laboratory methods for detecting, tracking, and studying the coronavirus, at the National Reference Laboratory. Malawi now has three laboratories to test COVID-19.
• Over 8 million people have received COVID-19 prevention messages through mass media channels including radio. About 100 opinion leaders have also been oriented on disseminating COVID-19 prevention and response messages to communities.
• UNICEF has procured supplies valued at US$600,000, both from local market [worth $75,000] and from offshore/Supply Division [worth $425,000]. The supplies include medicines and equipment for treatment of 84,000 cases such as critical WASH supplies like buckets, soap, and chlorine.