THE Continued high number of deaths recorded as a result of the Coronavirus (COVID-19) is disconcerting.
Anyone who is looking at the daily figures presented by authorities on confirmed positive cases and deaths should be concerned.
They should not only be scared but be responsible enough to ensure they do everything possible to protect themselves and their loved ones.
Places like Eastern Province, which is currently recording some of the highest COVID cases, are an indicator of just how poor people have been with upholding guidelines set out by the Ministry of Health.
Reports coming out of Luapula Province are that 12 churches were closed for alleged non-adherence to the virus protocols.
How large groups can gather and throw caution to the wind in light of the virus threat, is baffling and upsetting.
It speaks to the irresponsible leadership in these churches and authorities are right in having closed them down.
However, churches are not the only culprits in the disregard of set health guidelines as the Ministry of Health has pointed out.
Permanent Secretary Kennedy Malama disclosed that 25 business premises like bars, nightclubs and wholesale liquor outlets that did not meet operating standards to the COVID-19 guidelines were shut down on Monday evening.
With Covid deaths in their 60s, it is expected that Government may enforce stricter protocols to try and improve the situation.
Apart from some irresponsible individuals and groupings throwing spanners in the prevention mechanisms, there are other aspects Government needs to look at as possible reasons why there continues to be high numbers of deaths recorded.
While Dr Malama complained that people continued to present themselves to health facilities when the virus had escalated, it maybe that in some instances, citizens are not getting the correct information.
Some people have reportedly been turned away from Covid testing centres even when they suspect to have been in contact with confirmed cases.
They are reportedly being asked to pay K300 for testing and as such, it is possible that they only return to health facilities when the virus has already ravaged them.
There is need for clear messaging that will ensure that the public is aware of what procedures exist for people to follow in accessing Covid-related services.
It may not be enough for the ministry to plead with the public, during the daily briefing, to do the right thing. The Ministry of Health should instead engage community mobilisers to vigorously spread the word in communities and ensure more people are saved.