Shared laptops, phones a Covid-19 threat – ZICTA
Written by Millennium on April 13, 2020
SIMON MUNTEMBA writes
@SunZambian
SHARING of Information Communication Technology (ICT) gadgets such as such laptops and mobile phones can easily transmit the Corona virus (COVID-19) from one individual to another, the Zambia Information and Communications Technology Authority (ZICTA) has warned.
In an interview, Hanford Chaaba, ZICTA corporate communications officer has advised members of the public to avoid sharing ICT gadgets such as phones to prevent transmission of COVID-19.
Mr Chaaba said there was need to take precaution in view of the global and national concern of COVID-19 by adherring to the stipulated health measures outlined by the Government to avoid contracting the virus.
He further urged members of the public to always sanitize their ICT gadgets with disinfectants such as hand sanitizers and endeavor to maintain hygienic in their areas of operation.
“It is undeniable now that ICTs have become indispensable in our lives, for instance, we always move with mobile phones with us. Now, just the way we move with wallets and handbags and in order to prevent the spread of COVID-19 we would want to further urge companies that deal in various products and services to adopt smart digital as well as online payment platforms,” Mr Chaaba said.
Mr Chaaba also emphasised on the need to use online payment systems to avoid contracting the virus, stressing that it was a bedrock of a well-functioning digital economy, and was very crucial in a quest to achieve digital financial agenda.
He said digital platforms would not only help in avoiding unnecessary social and physical contact which could make customers vulnerable to the virus but that they were also an effective and sure way of accessing products and services.