The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) has deployed its rapid response teams in Lagos state as Nigeria records its first case of coronavirus (COVID-19).
The director-general of NCDC, Chikwe Ihekweazu, made this known in Abuja after Lagos confirmed the first case of coronavirus in the country. The patient, who is an Italian citizen, was said to have arrived Nigeria on February 25 from Milan, Italy on a business visit.
Ihekweazu said health facilities must remain on high alert and he assured Nigerians of their safety against COVID-19.
He stated that;
The NCDC has escalated the multi-sectoral coronavirus preparedness group to an Emergency Operations Centre (EOC), at level II to lead response activities. The NCDC will continue to keep Nigerians informed. It is important for them to be focused on facts and not fear. Nigerians should protect themselves by staying calm, drink lots of water.
He also advised Nigerians to frequently wash their hands, avoid touching eyes, nose and mouth, practice respiratory hygiene and that if anyone has a fever, cough and difficulty breathing, they should seek medical care early.
The DG assured Nigerians that with appropriate information, treatment and precautions, the country will beat COVID-19 like it did Ebola.
Minister of health, Osagie Enahire, while assuring Nigerians of the preparedness of the government to tackle the viral disease stated;
The Federal Ministry of Health, through Nigeria Centre for Disease Control, will continue to provide updates and will initiate all measures required to prevent the spread of any outbreak in Nigeria.
The multi-sectoral Coronavirus Preparedness Group led by the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) has immediately activated its national Emergency Operations Centre and will work closely with Lagos State Health authorities to respond to this case and implement firm control measures.
He added that;
I wish to assure all Nigerians that have we have been beefing up our preparedness capabilities since the first confirmation of cases in China, and we will use all the resources made available by the government to respond to this case.
