During this unprecedented time, the United States continues to partner with the Africa Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and national public health institutions in Africa to support preparedness and response to the ongoing global public health emergency that spread out of China and is now engulfing the world.
In a statement to the Young African Leadership Initiative (YALI) Network members, the Assistant Secretary of State, Bureau of African Affairs Tibor Nagy said these partnerships were important.
“I hope this message finds you and your families, friends, and communities safe and in good health. Every member of the YALI Network also has a critical role to play in stopping the spread of COVID-19. I want you to know that the U.S. government is working around the clock to help stop the spread of COVID-19. The United States is deploying the full range of U.S. resources to contain COVID-19, not just at home, but also across the globe,” he said.
Over the last 20 years, the United States has invested more than $100 billion to improve health care systems throughout Sub-Saharan Africa.
These investments have saved lives and trained African health care providers to be better prepared for health crises like the COVID-19 pandemic.
Tibor also urged YALI members to follow the safety guidelines outlined by the CDC and to encourage members of their community to do the same.
“It is vital to avoid large groups and practice social distancing. Wash your hands frequently for at least 20 seconds. Avoid close contact with people who are sick. Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue away. Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth. Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces. Stay home when you are sick, except to get medical care. We are all in this fight together,” he said.
