By Haruna Gimba
The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) has urged Nigerians to take collective responsibility to reduce the spread of COVID-19.
The agency made the call in a 9-point public health advisory posted on its website to members of the public to prevent further spread of the COVID-19 pandemic during the Eid-el-Kabir celebration.
In the advisory issued on Tuesday, the NCDC urged Nigerians to take personal and collective responsibility to reduce the risk of the spread of COVID-19.
The advisory warned that despite significant efforts, there is still ongoing transmission of the Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus type 2 (SARS-CoV-2) that causes COVID-19, in Nigeria and across the world.
“In addition to this, the Delta variant which is more transmissible than other known SARS-CoV-2 variants of concern has been detected in Nigeria. This calls for increased adherence to public health and social measures to prevent the spread of COVID-19.
“The virus that causes COVID-19 is more likely to spread when people gather and do not adhere to COVID-19 preventive measures.
“As we celebrate this year’s Eid-el-Kabir, we urge Nigerians to be aware of the high risk of spread of COVID-19, and adhere to the outlined preventive measures.
“1. Limit all non-essential domestic and international travel. This is especially important for intending travellers from countries with a high number of new COVID-19 cases. If you must travel to Nigeria, please adhere to the self-isolation, testing and other travel-related protocols.
“2. Always wear a facemask that covers your nose and mouth when in public settings or with people outside your household.
“3. Maintain a physical distance of at least two metres from people outside your household.
“4. Avoid direct contact with people such as hugging and handshaking. Avoid sharing items such as prayer mats and kettles.
“5. If you must gather, please do this outdoors; otherwise, ensure that the indoor venue has enough space to accommodate attendees with appropriate physical distancing, adequate ventilation, and airflow. This must be in line with the existing COVID-19 health regulations.
“6. Wash your hands frequently with soap and water or use a hand sanitiser when hands are not visibly dirty and running water is not readily available.
“7. Cover your mouth and nose with tissue paper, or your elbow when sneezing and/or coughing. Dispose of the tissue properly immediately after use and wash your hands.
“8. Avoid close contact with anyone showing symptoms of a respiratory illness.
“8. Stay at home if you feel unwell and call your state helpline for information on how to access testing. Do not mingle with others if you have symptoms such as fever, cough, or sudden loss of sense of taste or smell.
“9. Vulnerable groups, i.e. people 60 years and above and/or people with pre-existing medical conditions, should avoid non-essential outings and visitors. Where possible, a friend or family member should safely deliver food or any needed supplies,” the statement read in part.
The advisory noted that while the COVID-19 vaccine confers some protection against the disease, it is important for vaccinated people to continue practicing these public health and social measures, to protect themselves and others.
“We appeal to religious and traditional leaders to ensure adherence to safe practices at mosques, places of worship and other venues, where religious and social gatherings occur.
“Finally, we urge all Nigerians to take personal and collective responsibility to reduce the risk of spread of COVID-19, as we celebrate Eid-el-Kabir. We wish all Muslim faithful Eid Mubarak,” the NCDC stated.
