A CIMAS Medical Aid receptionist has tested positive for COVID-19 during the organisation’s routine and random testing.
By Michael Gwarisa
The staffer tested positive for COVID-19 on Thursday the 16 July 2020 and contact tracing and testing subsequently revealed that other members of staff had been exposed to the virus as they had been in the same work area with the staff member who had tested positive.
The company’s Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Mr Vulindlela L. Ndlovu said though a CIMAS Bulletin that the case was subsequently handed over to the COVID-19 Rapid Response Team and contact tracing began.
We also proceeded to test staff in that facility as well as other staff who share transport with her and twenty one more have tested positive for the virus. While the source of the infections is unknown, common factors among those who tested positive is that they all shared transport and/or shared workstations, computers, or telephone handsets.
“All those who tested positive are in quarantine after being referred to the COVID-19 Rapid Response Team and the Harare City Health Department. They will also be covered for treatment under the recently introduced Cimas COVID-19 cover,” said Mr Ndlovu.
As a precautionary measure, all Cimas premises in Harare have been deep cleaned and disinfected. The Cimas High Glen Clinic, in a separate incident, has been closed temporarily following the exposure of a staff member to a confirmed case.
“Our priority is the safety of our staff and continued service where possible for our members. We urge you to embrace digital platforms as well as virtual means of communication and interaction with the Society for all membership and pre-authorisation queries. We have introduced Dial-a-Doctor and a medicine delivery services to allow for virtual consultations and drug deliveries to your doorstep.
“Where services are required and physical presence in our facilities is necessary, we continue to take precautionary measures to protect you and our staff. We also urge you to take great care, wear a mask correctly, practice social distancing and good hand hygiene.”
Meanhwile, CIMAS has launched a COVID-19 benefit plan where all Cimas members are therefore covered for COVID-19 treatments.
“We note the recent surge in cases in Zimbabwe and we are ramping up our services to support members who may be affected. We urge our members to look out for our further communication on this in the coming days. The adjustments that we are doing may result in some disruptions to our services and we apologise for this in advance, and we appeal for your patience as we adjust.
“We wish to reiterate that our focus remains the safety of our staff, our members and the ability to deliver critical services to our members and patients; especially to support our stakeholders in the fight against COVID-19.”
