The Edo State Government has revved up measures to contain the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, decontaminating homes and offices of about 1,807 confirmed cases and contact tracing over 4,560 people who had various degrees of contacts with confirmed cases as death toll for the virus hits 60.
Speaking to journalists in Benin City, the state Commissioner for Health, Dr. Patrick Okundia, reassured that the Governor Godwin Obaseki-led administration remains committed to curtailing the spread of the virus and ensuring the health and safety of all residents.
The commissioner urged residents to support the government’s efforts at containing the pandemic by complying with all guidelines against the spread of the virus, including observing physical distancing, regular hand washing and compulsory use of face masks.
Okundia said the state has recorded remarkable success in the management of the pandemic, noting that 25 more patients who have tested negative for the virus have been discharged from the state’s isolation facilities and cleared to reunite with their families and the society.
According to him: “Edo State has now recorded a total of 1,807 confirmed cases, 7,749 suspected cases, 1,039 discharged persons and 60 COVID-19-related deaths.”
The commissioner who identified early testing as essential in the government’s efforts at containing the pandemic noted: “The Edo State Government encourages all residents with symptoms of the disease to come out for testing and treatment, as early detection is key to containing the virus. When detected early, a patient’s chance for survival increases.
“However, we urge you to comply with guidelines aimed at ensuring the health and safety of all residents. While the government ramps up efforts to contain the pandemic, it is imperative that all citizens support the government in its bid to protect the people.
“Stay at home and observe social distancing guidelines and other precautionary measures against the spread of the disease, including regular hand washing with soap under running water and the use of alcohol-based hand sanitisers. Cover your mouth and nose properly when sneezing and/or coughing.”
