Three Zambian lawmakers have so far tested positive for COVID-19, prompting the authorities to tighten controls at the country’s National Assembly.
According to the clerk of the National Assembly Cecilia Mbewe, the three members of parliament are among 19 people who tested for the deadly virus over the past few months.
“Confirmed cases as of Wednesday, 15th July, 2020, are as follows: three members of parliament; 10 National Assembly of Zambia staff; and six non-staff tested at the National Assembly Clinic,” Mbewe said in a statement on Thursday.
“This brings the total cumulative number of cases monitored by the National Assembly COVID-19 testing centre to 19.”
She said that parliament authorities have had to tighten measures to contain the spread of the virus among MPs and staff members.
“In order to manage the current situation and prevent further spread of the virus, the National Assembly of Zambia continues to operate under strict guidelines as recommended by the Ministry of Health,” she said.
Zambia had as of Thursday recorded 1,895 COVID-19 cases and 42 deaths.
JN/APA