Football Association of Zambia (FAZ) Technical Director Lyson Zulu has urged his fellow countrymen to observe the measures that have been put in place to halt the spread of the coronavirus in the country.

Zambia currently has seen 40 cases of the virus in the country with two deaths recorded so far, with the best defence against the spread of the pandemic being the World Health Organisation (WHO) regulations around social distancing.

“I want to encourage everybody to follow the recommendations of the World Health Organisation with regards the prevention of the coronavirus,” Zulu said in a video posted to the Zambia Soccer Pundits Facebook page.

“Remember to wash your hands regularly, use hand sanitiser, observe social distancing, avoid crowded places and stay at home.”

Youth coach Aaron Kawanga says it is frustrating for everybody to have to sit on the sidelines, but it is the right thing to do.

“We need to observe as much as we can social distancing. I know my colleagues are eager to start coaching again, but I would like to advise everybody to stay safe. Zambia needs all of us,” he said.

National handball team goalkeeper Richard Mulenga says corporates and those that can afford to should play a leading role in helping the poor in the country to navigate through the pandemic.

“COVD-19 is real, let’s stay safe,” Mulenga said. “Let’s follow the important measures that the government and minister of health have put in place. I am appealing to the well-wishers to come on board to help and donate hand sanitisers for those who cannot manage to buy.

“There are many in the community who cannot afford masks or hand sanitisers, come on board and help us. If we work as a team we shall overcome COVID-19.”

You can watch the full video from Zulu and friends here!

Zambian fans should adhere to the guidelines laid out by WHO in the bid to combat the coronavirus outbreak, which include:

Wash your hands frequently: Regularly and thoroughly clean your hands with an alcohol-based hand rub or wash them with soap and water.

Maintain social distancing: Maintain at least 1 metre (3 feet) distance between yourself and anyone who is coughing or sneezing.

Avoid touching eyes, nose and mouth: Hands touch many surfaces and can pick up viruses. Once contaminated, hands can transfer the virus to your eyes, nose or mouth. From there, the virus can enter your body and can make you sick.

Practice respiratory hygiene: Make sure you, and the people around you, follow good respiratory hygiene. This means covering your mouth and nose with your bent elbow or tissue when you cough or sneeze. Then dispose of the used tissue immediately.

If you have fever, cough and difficulty breathing, seek medical care early: Stay home if you feel unwell. If you have a fever, cough and difficulty breathing, seek medical attention and call in advance. Follow the directions of your local health authority.