An update on COVID-19 in Guatemala | Jürg Widmer Probst Jürg Widmer Probst
Jürg Widmer Probst reviews the situation surrounding COVID-19 in Guatemala including recent announcements by the president on the vaccination programme.
United Nations in South Africa launches $136 million emergency appeal in resp...SABC News
The United Nations in South Africa yesterday launched a US$136 million (R2.5 billion) emergency appeal to assist up to 10 million people in vulnerable communities facing various risks caused by COVID-19 pandemic in the areas of health, water and sanitation, food security and gender-based violence, among others.
Case Study The pandemic has been less deadly than elsewhere, but Af.pdfakpatra2000
Case Study: The pandemic has been less deadly than elsewhere, but African
economies have suffered a double blow due to graft.
Widespread corruption during the pandemic has worsened the devastating effect of
COVID-19 on Africas economy. Since the continents first case was recorded on 14
February 2020 in Egypt, the virus has affected all countries in the region.
By 6 April 2022, Africa had 11.5 million confirmed cases and 252 000 COVID-19 related
deaths. However according to the World Health Organization, the number of infections
could be as much as 97 times greater than reported cases. Exposure to the virus in
Africa rose from 3% in June 2020 to about 65% by September 2021 equivalent to
over 800 million cases, far more than the 8.2 million documented in that period.
The health risks of the pandemic have been less severe than elsewhere in the world,
with Africa recording the highest level of asymptomatic cases, estimated at 67%. This
has been attributed mainly to the continents large youthful population and lower rates
of underlying conditions such as diabetes, hypertension and other chronic diseases,
which push up hospitalisations and deaths.
Africa has been fortunate in this regard, especially considering its fragile
health systems. But the pandemic exposed structural weaknesses of the continents
economy to devastating effect. Restrictions on movement and commerce curbed
infections but came at a huge cost to Africas already fragile economies.
According to WHO, the number of infections in Africa could be 97 times greater than
reported cases.
According to the African Development Bank, GDP shrunk by 2.1% in 2020, and the
projected export revenue lost from fuel alone was about USD 101 billion that year. With
declining revenues and rising expenditure, fiscal deficits doubled to a historical high of
8.4% of GDP.
The cost of stimulus packages alone ranged from 0.02% of GDP in South Sudan to
about 10.4% in South Africa. As a result, Africas debt burden increased by 10 to 15
percentage points in 2021. Many countries were allowed to default on their foreign debt
with the rising interest rates to tame inflation in advanced countries.
The estimated productive time lost in 2020 due to COVID-19 was equivalent to
around 112 million jobs. In Nigeria, 20% of households lost their employment as of
June 2021, while in South Africa three million jobs were lost during the lockdown. The
pandemic cost Kenya and Ghana over 700 000 jobs. World Bank surveys reveal that
82% of households in Malawi and 80% in Nigeria reported income losses. Likewise,
76% of households in Uganda and 46% in Ethiopia said their incomes had dropped.
About 30 million additional Africans fell into extreme poverty (living on less than USD
1.90 a day) in 2020, with the number estimated to increase to 39 million in 2021. A total
of 465.3 million people, 34.4% of Africas population, were estimated to be in extreme
poverty in 2021.
Most COVID-19 items were procured under a certificate of emergency.
An update on COVID-19 in Guatemala | Jürg Widmer Probst Jürg Widmer Probst
Jürg Widmer Probst reviews the situation surrounding COVID-19 in Guatemala including recent announcements by the president on the vaccination programme.
United Nations in South Africa launches $136 million emergency appeal in resp...SABC News
The United Nations in South Africa yesterday launched a US$136 million (R2.5 billion) emergency appeal to assist up to 10 million people in vulnerable communities facing various risks caused by COVID-19 pandemic in the areas of health, water and sanitation, food security and gender-based violence, among others.
Case Study The pandemic has been less deadly than elsewhere, but Af.pdfakpatra2000
Case Study: The pandemic has been less deadly than elsewhere, but African
economies have suffered a double blow due to graft.
Widespread corruption during the pandemic has worsened the devastating effect of
COVID-19 on Africas economy. Since the continents first case was recorded on 14
February 2020 in Egypt, the virus has affected all countries in the region.
By 6 April 2022, Africa had 11.5 million confirmed cases and 252 000 COVID-19 related
deaths. However according to the World Health Organization, the number of infections
could be as much as 97 times greater than reported cases. Exposure to the virus in
Africa rose from 3% in June 2020 to about 65% by September 2021 equivalent to
over 800 million cases, far more than the 8.2 million documented in that period.
The health risks of the pandemic have been less severe than elsewhere in the world,
with Africa recording the highest level of asymptomatic cases, estimated at 67%. This
has been attributed mainly to the continents large youthful population and lower rates
of underlying conditions such as diabetes, hypertension and other chronic diseases,
which push up hospitalisations and deaths.
Africa has been fortunate in this regard, especially considering its fragile
health systems. But the pandemic exposed structural weaknesses of the continents
economy to devastating effect. Restrictions on movement and commerce curbed
infections but came at a huge cost to Africas already fragile economies.
According to WHO, the number of infections in Africa could be 97 times greater than
reported cases.
According to the African Development Bank, GDP shrunk by 2.1% in 2020, and the
projected export revenue lost from fuel alone was about USD 101 billion that year. With
declining revenues and rising expenditure, fiscal deficits doubled to a historical high of
8.4% of GDP.
The cost of stimulus packages alone ranged from 0.02% of GDP in South Sudan to
about 10.4% in South Africa. As a result, Africas debt burden increased by 10 to 15
percentage points in 2021. Many countries were allowed to default on their foreign debt
with the rising interest rates to tame inflation in advanced countries.
The estimated productive time lost in 2020 due to COVID-19 was equivalent to
around 112 million jobs. In Nigeria, 20% of households lost their employment as of
June 2021, while in South Africa three million jobs were lost during the lockdown. The
pandemic cost Kenya and Ghana over 700 000 jobs. World Bank surveys reveal that
82% of households in Malawi and 80% in Nigeria reported income losses. Likewise,
76% of households in Uganda and 46% in Ethiopia said their incomes had dropped.
About 30 million additional Africans fell into extreme poverty (living on less than USD
1.90 a day) in 2020, with the number estimated to increase to 39 million in 2021. A total
of 465.3 million people, 34.4% of Africas population, were estimated to be in extreme
poverty in 2021.
Most COVID-19 items were procured under a certificate of emergency.
Economic freedom fighters statement on the covid 19 developmentsSABC News
India is not at risk of losing hosting rights for next year’s Twenty20 World Cup despite its cricket board’s failure to secure a tax exemption for the event
" Corona virus "
First case of corona virus was reported on 10 jan 2002 in wuhan city of china and till now there are more than 7lakhs+ infected from it.
This interactive webinar is part of the world tour series designed by the World Health Organization's Patients for Patient Safety (PFPS) Global Network and hosted by Patients for Patient Safety Canada, the patient-led program of the Canadian Patient Safety Institute, a WHO Collaborating Centre on Patient Safety and Patient Engagement.
18 jun20 ILC Global Alliance webinar presentationILC- UK
With the ILC Global Alliance marking its 30th anniversary this year, members came together to share their perspectives on the impact of COVID-19 on long-term care.
While the coronavirus has indiscriminately hit most countries of the world, its impact has been disproportionately felt by the most vulnerable in society, including those receiving long-term care. In Europe alone, it is estimated that up to half of the total number of coronavirus deaths have occurred in long-term care facilities. In order to ensure that our older population is sufficiently protected while still receiving the care they need, will countries have to urgently rethink and adjust how long-term care is provided?
President Ramaphosa COVID-19 address 13 May 2020SABC News
This coronavirus is taking a heavy toll not only on the health of our people, but also on our
people’s ability to earn a living, to feed themselves and their families, to learn and to
develop, and to enjoy many of the basic freedoms that we daily take for granted.
The outbreak and subsequent spread of COVID-19 to the West African sub-region have brought significant changes to the different aspects of our lives and grounded educational and socio-political and economic activities of ECOWAS member states. The pandemic has exposed the poor state of the health systems and shortage in medical supplies and protective gears to cope with the health emergency. In response, strict restrictions were put in place to curb the spread of the virus and these have drastically affected peoples’ lifestyles. However, there has been huge increase in the use of technology in business, education, religion and other activities as people adapt to the changing times in the sub-region. It is the argument of this paper that things cannot return to the way they were before the pandemic, but West African states must strategically plan for the Post COVID-19 era to survive the massive wave of unemployment, socio-economic meltdown and changes in lifestyle. The paper concluded that while the fight against the virus in the sub-region was not collective, post-pandemic recovery must be coordinated, strategically plannedamong member states. It was recommended that the governments should be flexible enough to retain the use of ICT and technology alongside the conventional ways of doing things in the post-pandemic era.
Globalization has altered the way we live and earn a livelihood. Consequently, trade and travel have been recognized as significant determinants of the spread of disease. Additionally, the rise in urbanization and the closer integration of the world economy have facilitated global interconnectedness. Therefore, globalization has emerged as an essential mechanism of disease transmission. This paper aims to examine the potential impact of COVID-19 on globalization and global health in terms of mobility, trade, travel, and countries most impacted.
Economic freedom fighters statement on the covid 19 developmentsSABC News
India is not at risk of losing hosting rights for next year’s Twenty20 World Cup despite its cricket board’s failure to secure a tax exemption for the event
" Corona virus "
First case of corona virus was reported on 10 jan 2002 in wuhan city of china and till now there are more than 7lakhs+ infected from it.
This interactive webinar is part of the world tour series designed by the World Health Organization's Patients for Patient Safety (PFPS) Global Network and hosted by Patients for Patient Safety Canada, the patient-led program of the Canadian Patient Safety Institute, a WHO Collaborating Centre on Patient Safety and Patient Engagement.
18 jun20 ILC Global Alliance webinar presentationILC- UK
With the ILC Global Alliance marking its 30th anniversary this year, members came together to share their perspectives on the impact of COVID-19 on long-term care.
While the coronavirus has indiscriminately hit most countries of the world, its impact has been disproportionately felt by the most vulnerable in society, including those receiving long-term care. In Europe alone, it is estimated that up to half of the total number of coronavirus deaths have occurred in long-term care facilities. In order to ensure that our older population is sufficiently protected while still receiving the care they need, will countries have to urgently rethink and adjust how long-term care is provided?
President Ramaphosa COVID-19 address 13 May 2020SABC News
This coronavirus is taking a heavy toll not only on the health of our people, but also on our
people’s ability to earn a living, to feed themselves and their families, to learn and to
develop, and to enjoy many of the basic freedoms that we daily take for granted.
The outbreak and subsequent spread of COVID-19 to the West African sub-region have brought significant changes to the different aspects of our lives and grounded educational and socio-political and economic activities of ECOWAS member states. The pandemic has exposed the poor state of the health systems and shortage in medical supplies and protective gears to cope with the health emergency. In response, strict restrictions were put in place to curb the spread of the virus and these have drastically affected peoples’ lifestyles. However, there has been huge increase in the use of technology in business, education, religion and other activities as people adapt to the changing times in the sub-region. It is the argument of this paper that things cannot return to the way they were before the pandemic, but West African states must strategically plan for the Post COVID-19 era to survive the massive wave of unemployment, socio-economic meltdown and changes in lifestyle. The paper concluded that while the fight against the virus in the sub-region was not collective, post-pandemic recovery must be coordinated, strategically plannedamong member states. It was recommended that the governments should be flexible enough to retain the use of ICT and technology alongside the conventional ways of doing things in the post-pandemic era.
Globalization has altered the way we live and earn a livelihood. Consequently, trade and travel have been recognized as significant determinants of the spread of disease. Additionally, the rise in urbanization and the closer integration of the world economy have facilitated global interconnectedness. Therefore, globalization has emerged as an essential mechanism of disease transmission. This paper aims to examine the potential impact of COVID-19 on globalization and global health in terms of mobility, trade, travel, and countries most impacted.
How these 5 Guatemalan women changed history | Jürg Widmer Probst Jürg Widmer Probst
Jürg Widmer Probst on five Guatemalan women who have changed history by fighting for the rights of indigenous people. check out this article for more detail.
6 of the best Guatemalan films to add to your collection | Jürg Widmer Probst Jürg Widmer Probst
Jürg Widmer Probst on his favourite 6 Guatemalan films, including synopsis and summaries of why they’re worth watching and how they get under the skin of Guatemala and its people.
Try these five things to do in Guatemala when you visit | Jürg Widmer Probst Jürg Widmer Probst
Jürg Widmer Probst on the best things to do in Guatemala to help you plan your visit post-pandemic, including churches to visit, art to see, salsa dancing classes and more.
Find out more about Mayan culture in Guatemala | Jürg Widmer Probst Jürg Widmer Probst
Jürg Widmer Probst on the fascinating and intricate history of the Mayan culture, and how it influences everything in Guatemala from its art and religion to food and environment.
Meet five figures from Guatemalan folklore | Jürg Widmer Probst Jürg Widmer Probst
Jürg Widmer Probst on the fascinating stories from Latin American and Guatemalan folklore. From spirits to sprites and heroic birds and symbols for freedom there is lots to discover.
Jürg Widmer Probst Guatemala special feature: the culture and etiquetteJürg Widmer Probst
In the first of a series of new blogs, this Jürg Widmer Probst Guatemala special feature looks at the culture and etiquette of this intriguing country.
5 women from Guatemala who changed history | Jürg Widmer ProbstJürg Widmer Probst
Jürg Widmer Probst lists women from Guatemala who are making an impact and changing history, whether as politicians, fighters for justice or shining a light on victims of the Guatemalan civil war.
6 fascinating facts about the Mayan civilisation in Guatemala | Jürg Widmer P...Jürg Widmer Probst
Jürg Widmer Probst with six fascinating facts you might not know about the Mayan civilisation in Guatemala, including rituals, Mayan writing, extreme sports and why the cities were abandoned.
4 DAYS MASAI MARA WILDEBEEST MIGRATION SAFARI TOUR PACKAGE KENYABush Troop Safari
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Exploring Montreal's Artistic Heritage Top Art Galleries and Museums to VisitSpade & Palacio Tours
Montreal boasts a vibrant artistic heritage, showcased in its top art galleries and museums. From the expansive collections at the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts to the cutting-edge exhibits at the Musée d'art contemporain, discover the city's rich cultural landscape. Experience dynamic street art, indigenous works, and contemporary pieces, reflecting Montreal's diverse and innovative art scene.
Antarctica- Icy wilderness of extremes and wondertahreemzahra82
In this presentation, we delve into the captivating realm of Antarctica, Earth's southernmost continent. This icy wilderness stands as a testament to extremes, with record-breaking cold temperatures and vast expanses of pristine ice. Antarctica's landscape is dominated by towering glaciers, colossal icebergs, and expansive ice shelves. Yet, amidst this frozen expanse, a rich tapestry of unique wildlife thrives, including penguins, seals, and seabirds, all finely attuned to survive in this harsh environment. Beyond its natural wonders, Antarctica also serves as a vital hub for scientific exploration, providing invaluable insights into climate change and the Earth's history
Discover Palmer, Puerto Rico, through an immersive cultural tour that unveils its rich history and vibrant traditions. Experience lively festivals, savor authentic cuisine, and explore local markets. Visit historical landmarks, museums, and stunning colonial architecture. Engage with friendly locals, enjoy live music, and hike scenic nature trails, all while participating in cultural workshops and discovering unique artisan crafts.
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Unlock the secrets to success with our comprehensive 8-Step Glamping Accelerator Go-To-Market Plan! Watch our FREE webinar, where you'll receive expert guidance and invaluable insights on every aspect of launching and growing your glamping business.
Discover the wonders of the Wenatchee River with a variety of river tours in Monitor, WA. Whether you're seeking thrilling whitewater rafting, peaceful kayaking, family-friendly float trips, or scenic sunset cruises, there's something for everyone. Enjoy fishing, wildlife spotting, bird watching, and more in this beautiful natural setting, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and families alike.
The Cherry Blossom season in Hunza begins in the second week of March and lasts until the end of April, varying with altitude. During this enchanting period, tourists from around the world flock to Hunza Valley to witness its transformation into a vibrant tapestry of white, pink, and green. The valley comes alive with cherry blossoms, creating a picturesque and mesmerizing landscape that captivates visitors.
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The Cherry Blossom season in Hunza starts in the second week of March and extends until the end of April, depending on the altitude. During this enchanting period, tourists from around the globe travel to Hunza Valley to witness its transformation into a vibrant tapestry of white, pink, and green. The valley comes alive with cherry blossoms, creating a picturesque and mesmerizing landscape that captivates all who visit. For the best experience, join Hunza Adventure Tours, the top tour company in Pakistan, and immerse yourself in this breathtaking seasonal spectacle.
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London Country Tours, the foremost travel partner offers customized Stonehenge tours from London coming with private tour guides and direct access to the inner circles. Visit: https://www.londoncountrytours.co.uk/tour/tours-to-stonehenge-oxford/
How To Change Name On Volaris Ticket.pdfnamechange763
How to change name on Volaris ticket? This is one of the most common questions asked by travelers flying with Volaris Airlines. The mentioned details can help you with your name rectification on the airline ticket. If you are still facing difficulties call the consolidation desk at +1-800-865-1848.
During the coldest months, Italy transforms into a winter wonderland, providing visitors with a very unique experience. From the Settimana Bianca ski event to the lively Carnevale celebrations, Italy's winter festivities provide something for everyone. Enjoy hot cocoa, eat hearty comfort foods, and buy during winter deals. Explore the country's rich cultural past by participating in Settimana Bianca, and Carnevale, sipping hot chocolate, shopping during winter deals, and indulging in winter comfort foods. Visit our website https://timeforsicily.com/ for more information.
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Guatemala special feature: Guatemala and COVID-19 | Jürg Widmer Probst
1. Jürg Widmer Probst Guatemala special feature: COVID-19 update
COVID-19 is hitting Guatemala at every level, from the Government and cabinet to
the rural population. On 20 September 2020, President Alejandro Giammattei
announced he tested positive with COVID-19. The Government continues to work,
according to the President, and it appears he is now recovering.
Jürg Widmer Probst Guatemala special feature: a COVID-19 update
President Giammattei announced his diagnosis to a local radio station called Sonora.
At the time he said while he had typical symptoms of COVID-19, including a fever
and aches, he underwent treatment at the Centre Medico Militar in Guatemala City.
Having assured the Guatemalan people that he was isolating himself from any public
activity, he went on to say that the cabinet is now working remotely. His
announcement came on the very same day that the country reopened its borders
with Mexico, El Salvador, Honduras and Belize. The borders were closed on 16
March 2020, and international airports shut down. Mundo Maya International Airport
in the north of Guatemala also reopened on 20 September.
New travel protocols were announced at the same time by the Guatemalan Ministry
of Health. These include that anyone over the age of 10 wanting to enter Guatemala
must present a negative test result. The COVID-19 test result can’t be more than 72
hours old to be valid. If a traveller from overseas appears to have symptoms when
they arrive in Guatemala, then they will be denied entry. If they’re a domestic
traveller, they will be isolated. All ports of entry into Guatemala also have mandatory
policies for face masks, hand santisation and social distancing.
2. How many cases of COVID-19 are there in Guatemala?
Total cases of COVID-19 in Guatemala as of 8 October 2020 stand at 95,704, with
3,335 deaths. Many of these are in rural regions of Guatemala and affecting
indigenous Guatemalans.
More than 6.5 million Guatemalans identify as indigenous, and around 79% of these
people live in poverty. This is roughly twice as many as the non-indigenous
Guatemalan population. In addition, more than a third of indigenous people in
Guatemala deal with food insecurity. Despite these figures, less than half of
Government expenditure goes on this section of the population.
Sadly, indigenous children in Guatemala are still more likely to die of malnutrition
and poverty than of COVID-19. This is how it has been for decades, and as yet,
COVID-19 is not overtaking these systemic problems when it comes to life
expectancy in these areas.
International efforts to help Guatemala fight COVID-19
There are efforts from the international community to assist the fight against COVID-
19 in Guatemala, however. Funding from the Japanese Government and the Pan
American Health Organisation (PAHO) resulted in a donation of 5,000 pieces of PPE
(personal protective equipment). This is part of an ongoing initiative to support the
COVID-19 response across the Americas.
Japan has reiterated its support for Guatemala and its people on numerous
occasions. The PPE goes to frontline health workers in rural areas of Guatemala,
where the more vulnerable groups are doing their best to deal with the pandemic.
Donated PPE equipment includes body bags, waste bags, goggles, latex gloves,
surgical masks, gowns and N95 respirators. So far, Japan has contributed almost £2
million worth of COVID-19 support in Guatemala, Venezuala, Peru, Paraguay,
Panama, Mexico, Chile, Bolivia and Brazil.
The British Ambassador to Guatemala Nick Whittingham announced earlier during
the pandemic that pharmaceutical giant AstraZeneca is donating PPE and COVID-
19 tests to the Guatemalan Government.
These initiatives are testament to the support the country needs to deal with this
crisis. Aid groups continue to be concerned that Guatemala will be disproportionately
damaged by COVID-19 due to the high poverty levels I mentioned earlier.
Situation in Guatemala is complex
According to Oxfam’s country head Ana Maria Mendez Libby, the situation caused
by the pandemic in Guatemala is particularly complex. She points to the long-term
droughts in rural areas of the country that are exacerbated by climate change. This
along with rising levels of poverty cause serious issues.
More than half of the country’s population does not live in urban areas. And in the
rural regions of Guatemala, there is an extremely fragile social protection ecosystem.
Access to water, sanitation, healthcare and food was already difficult pre-COVID.
We can also add on to Guatemala’s issues the problem of North America effectively
cutting off asylum seekers in mid-2019. Guatemala has to, by international law, allow
3. deportees back into the country, as well as any from Salvador and Honduras. This
perfect storm of social issues means COVID-19 is more dangerous in Guatemala
than in some other countries. And even more so for the indigenous population, which
is made up from a range of groups including the Tzutujil, Xinca, Kaqchikel and
Garifuna people.
Charities delivering aid in Guatemala are coming up with all kinds of innovative
distribution models in an effort to keep the virus down. For example, charities like
Oxfam are transferring money directly to local people’s phones so that they can
collect food and medicine for the community. This is completely different to the usual
method of sending aid workers into the country.
COVID-19 Government assistance is helping those who live in cities, but it’s clear
that more effort must be made in rural areas to see the people through this crisis.