1.0           ZIMBABWE’S RESPONSE TO THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC, AND REPORT ON THE PROCUREMENT AND ROLL-OUT OF VACCINES

Cabinet received an update on the Country‘s Response to the COVID-19 Pandemic, as presented by the Vice President and Minister of Health and Child Care, General (Rtd.) Honourable Dr. C.G.D.N. Chiwenga.

Cabinet advises that since the outbreak of the pandemic, the country’s cumulative COVID-19 cases reached 257 568 as at 3 October 2022, with 251 591 recoveries and 5 603 deaths. The recovery rate was 98%, with 374 active cases recorded. A total of 30 new cases were recorded during the week, compared to 196 the previous week. The decrease shows that Government containment measures are bearing fruit.

 Regarding the National Vaccination Programme, the nation is being informed that, as at 3 October, 2022, a total of 6 531 744 first doses of the COVID-19 vaccine had been administered, while 4 885 548 people had received their second dose, and 1 159 989 their third dose. The gap between first and second dose vaccination remains a grave concern. The public is urged to get vaccinated for the 2nd and 3rd doses. Accordingly, provinces will continue to strengthen COVID-19 vaccination and prioritize schools to ensure that all eligible students are vaccinated before the end of the school term.