The Rwandan government on Friday urged its citizens to be vigilant in the face of the global spread of COVID-19, warning people to avoid handshakes and close body contact such as hugging.

"Rwanda has put in place preparedness and response mechanisms to deal with a possible outbreak; however, given the severity of the epidemic and rapidity with which it spreads we urge all Rwandans to take appropriate precautions and follow the advice of health professionals," the prime minister's office said in a statement.

Warning the public against unnecessary travel to countries affected by COVID-19, the statement urged people to cover their mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing in public and wash their hands with clean water and soap or hand sanitizer.

It also urged the public to avoid contact with others when suffering from flu-like symptoms, coughing or high fever.

In addition, it urged people to contact their nearest health facility whenever they have symptoms such as flu, fever, a running nose, or a cough with a sore throat.

The Ministry of Health and other relevant institutions will continue to work on adequate strategies in the fight against the epidemic, the statement added.

On Friday, Togo became the latest African country to confirm its first case of COVID-19.