Abstract:
The COVID-19 Pandemic in Africa is a severe
reminder of the brunt of emerging and re-emerging
infectious pathogens and the need for simple,
context-oriented, and sustainable health models to
combat them when the need arises. In this
commentary, an analytical discursive approach was
chosen to owe to Africa's unique situation of weak
health systems, with most of its member states
showing an initial reluctance to deal openly with the
COVID-19 situation. This paper discusses five major
control measures doped the SHEF2 Model i.e.
("SHEF2"- S: Social distancing, H: Hands, E: Elbows,
F: Face, F: Feel) of COVID-19 implemented in Africa.
We also review the issues related to implementing
SHEF2 control measures in Africa. The measures
being taken in Asia, Europe, and North America
such as social distancing and regular hand washing
are a particular challenge for African countries with
dense populations, unequal access to water, and
limited social safety nets. COVID-19 is challenging the public health and socio-political systems of all
affected African countries. The burden of COVID-19
demands rapid and decisive action to be taken, yet the comparison shows how difficult it is was for an
unknown new coronavirus disease. In line with the
steps being taken across the globe to control and
contain COVID-19 pandemic, African countries are
preparing for the great effects of this pandemic and
ensuing deep recession thus the reason we assert,
the greater hope for African countries is
implementing an aggressive SHEF2 model strategy.
The spread of the pandemic will eventually stop,
and the international system will find a balance, but
most of the damage will be felt particularly by
Africa.
