The government in Mozambique has launched a free coronavirus hotline to reduce the number of people physically visiting health centres.
The line involves callers dialling the switchboard on 110 for information and counselling. They are also encouraged to report people who are flouting quarantine or self-isolation guidance.
Six doctors will work in shifts and the health ministry expects they will receive about 2,000 calls per day.
The project costs $100,000 (£82,000) and has been financed by international partners.
The switchboard is installed inside the Mavalane General Hospital in the outskirts of Maputo city.
The government hopes to open similar services in two other cities -Beira in the centre, and Nampula in the north.
The Deputy Health Minister Lidia Cardoso on Monday said the initiative is part of the government’s response to the pandemic.
