GIS – 10 April, 2020: The lockdown is being extended to Monday 04 May 2020, to further contain the spread of the Covid-19 in the country, announced the Prime Minister, Mr Pravind Kumar Jugnauth, this evening, during a videoconference from his residence in Vacoas.
The extension of the lockdown, a decision taken today at the Cabinet meeting, is in line with Government’s commitment to ensure the safety of the population.
As at date, Mauritius has reached a total of 318 Covid-19 cases, and recorded the recovery of 23 patients. The country has also registered two more deaths, today, bringing the total number of deaths to nine.
Prime Minister Jugnauth pointed out that Mauritius is under lockdown for the past 23 days with the closure of schools and halt of most economic activities. With regard to Rodrigues and Agalega, the lockdown will end on 15 April 2020, barring the education sector.
He lauded the contribution of stakeholders of the private sector who have contributed to the Solidarity Fund. Moreover, with regard to the provision made for protective equipment, he welcomed the assistance being provided by the private sector in the production of masks and protective equipment. He also indicated that flights from China are expected tonight with some two million masks and 100 000 protective visors.
The Prime Minister commended the contribution and sacrifice of all frontliners including the Police Force and the healthcare personnel for their concerted effort in the combat against Covid-19. He called for continued vigilance and discipline from every Mauritian in this difficult moment.
Government, he added, is already working on a recovery plan that will help to reopen the economy while ensuring the safety of the population.
As for the spokesperson of the National Communication Committee on Covid-19, Dr Zouberr Joomaye, who also videoconferenced from his residence, stated that the extension of the lockdown will further contribute to limit the spread of Covid-19 in the country.
It is to be noted that the Prime Minister and other high officials of the National Communication Committee on Covid-19 have self-isolated since last night. This decision was taken after the secretary of the Minister of Health and Wellness was tested positive of Covid-19. A first testing was carried out and came up negative but self-isolation will end only after a second testing due next week.
#ResOuLakaz #BeSafeMoris
Government Information Service, Prime Minister’s Office, Level 6, New Government Centre, Port Louis, Mauritius. Email: gis@govmu.org Website: http://gis.govmu.org Mobile App: Search Gov