Health Minister, Dr Frank Anthony is rebutting claims made in some sections of society that his ministry’s management of the pandemic is not data-driven. His refutation comes on the heels of the People’s National Congress Reform (PNCR) lamenting the lack of epidemiological data in the country.
Dr Anthony, during a joint press conference with President, Dr Irfaan Ali and top health officials, said this afternoon that a team comprising of “key players” would meet on daily to analyse COVID-19 data before formulating strategies.
Whether that data is provided for public consumption is unknown at this time. The Ministry, however, shares daily surveillance reports showing the number of new infections, deaths, and regional distribution of confirmed cases.
Dr Anthony said, “In terms of the PNC saying that we don’t have data to manage this epidemic, that’s not true…We have a team of persons that include each one of the Regional Health Officers and all the respective heads whether hospitals and persons dealing with testing – all the key players – helping with the management of this disease.”
He continued, “They meet every morning at 07:30hrs, they go through all the data relating to COVID and based on the information they get, they strategize the rest of the day and going into the near future. So, we have been meeting, we have up to date data; we compile that on a daily basis. So, we’re very sure with what we’re doing, and its data-driven, and science-driven, so I just want the public to know this is how we’re approaching it.”
The press conference was held after Dr Anthony reported a significant increase in infections. More than 700 cases were recorded within the last 24 hours, followed by 485 confirmed yesterday. Given the increase, the Minister has theorised that the more transmissible Omicron variant is present in the country, but samples sent abroad to ascertain same are yet to return.
