Minimizing the long-term impact of COVID-19 on environmental pollution in Sub-Saharan Africa

Abstract

The outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic has resulted in increased use of surgical masks and other personal protective equipment (PPE) among people across the globe. While the use of these materials can be seen as a step toward limiting the spread of the coronavirus disease, it presents yet another source of environmental pollution which is currently being overlooked by most governments and people. This article provides a commentary on the environmental effects of the disposal of PPE and recommendations for addressing the potential risks it presents. Health and environmental actors, in conjunction with governments and their various ministries and non-governmental organizations (NGOs) must step up public education on the need to properly discard used PPE without adding to current sources of environmental pollution and endangering human lives.