Seychelles has bolstered its preparedness to fight COVID-19 as the spread of the virus continues to hit touristic destinations around the world.

The islands' President Danny Faure chaired a meeting on Wednesday to assess the systems put in place to prevent a possible spread of the virus.

During the meeting, Public Health Commissioner Dr Jude Gedeon hailed the efforts put in place by the islands', which include availing equipment to detect possible patients and control measures.

Gedeon noted that the "Anse Royale Health Centre is being used as a temporary isolation unit for any suspected cases. He noted that Health officers have been trained and briefed to respond appropriately to the situation."

Seychelles is also keen to cushion its vibrant tourism sector from the impact of the coronavirus.

Wednesday's meeting resolved to send out a message to the international community that the Islands remain safe for visitors.

"As for the tourism sector, members of the Forum explained that efforts are being made through international partners to reinforce the message that Seychelles remains an ideal and safe destination. Members of the Forum will continue monitoring the situation and submit comprehensive reports on the matter to the Cabinet of Ministers by mid-March," a press release by the presidency said.

Six African countries have reported confirmed cases of COVID-19, including Morocco, Egypt, Tunisia, Senegal, Algeria and Nigeria.

The pneumonia outbreak was first reported in the city of Wuhan, central China's Hubei Province, in December 2019. Experts have attributed the outbreak to a novel coronavirus that has since spread across China and abroad.

Source(s): Seychelles Presidency