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General News of Friday, 28 February 2020

Source: www.mynigeria.com

Rivers State reveals efforts in place to battle coronavirus

Governor of Rivers State, Nyesom Wike Governor of Rivers State, Nyesom Wike

Governor Nyesom Wike has said that Rivers State is prepared to battle Coronavirus if it ever gets to the state.

The World Health Organization listed Rivers State among four others which they say are likely to have confirmed cases of the virus also known as COVID-19.

Addressing newsmen, the Director Planning, Research & Statistics, Rivers State Ministry of Health, Chinwe Atata, stated that the state has been placed on alert mode since Nigeria confirmed its first case of the virus in Lagos State.

He also revealed the efforts put in place at the International Airport Omagwa to help prevent the virus from getting into the state.

He said: “Following the confirmation of the first case of COVID – 19 in Lagos, Nigeria, it has become imperative to brief you on the State of preparedness and necessary preventive behavior we should adopt in the interest of Public Health Safety. COVID – 19 was first discovered in the WUHAN Province on 31st December, 2019.

“The risk of importation into the country was considered high especially as result of trade and travel traffic.

“The Rivers State Ministry of Health is working in collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Health (especially the Ports health services), the National Centre for Disease Control and other relevant stakeholders to ensure maximum surveillance at all international entry points in the State.

” In line with our protocol, all asymptomatic travelers from impacted areas coming into the State are placed on self-isolation for the maximum incubation period of the disease and monitored through the period at their destination within the State by assigned surveillance health officers without stigma.

“So far and for the avoidance of doubt, there is no case of COVID-19 in Rivers State.

“In addition, we have marked out an adhoc treatment center for COVID-19 in case of any eventuality. Presently, the State rapid response team is reinforcing preparedness with simulations for evacuations and triage at this center. We have in stock, sufficient quantities of commodities especially Protective personal Equipment and supportive drugs for therapeutic interventions in case of further challenges.

“All health facilities should ensure strict and appropriate IPC at all triage points. Citizens are further advised not to abuse social media and indulge in spreading misinformation that can cause panic and lead to danger.

“The Rivers PHEOC will continue to provide updates and pursue all necessary measures to ensure public health safety. There is therefore, no cause for alarm as the State Government is taking care of the situation. For further information or enquiry, please call: 08056109538, 08031888093,08033124314.”