The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control continues to closely monitor the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic and follow the latest guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention as NaijaBet wishes everybody to stay safe.
We understand this is a stressful time and people want to know what they can do now to protect themselves and their families. Below are some everyday steps that Nigerian can take now.
In addition, stay informed about what’s happening in your community and always follow the directions of state and local authorities. You can also get more information on NCDC Website https://ncdc.gov.ng/
TRAVEL ADVICE
Nigerians are strongly advised against non-essential travel to high incidence countries i.e. countries with over 1,000 cases domestically. All returning travellers from foreign countries are required to self-isolate for 14-days. The NCDC has disseminated information on the practice of self-isolation. Additionally, travellers returning from high risk countries will be actively followed-up for 14 days by the NCDC and Port Health Services.
The Port Health Services of the Federal Ministry of Health has heightened screening measures at points of entry (Lagos, Kano, Port Harcourt and FCT). In addition to automated temperature screening at points of entry, travellers are given a contact form to fill and asked questions upon arrival about symptoms of illness and travel history. The NCDC is also working with the Nigerian Customs Services to enhance surveillance at land borders to prevent further importation of the disease.
WEAR A CLOTH FACE COVER
The NCDC now advises everyone to wear a cloth face cover when going out in public, such as going to the grocery store or to pick up other necessities.
- The cloth face cover is meant to protect other people in case you are infected. You could spread COVID-19 to others even if you do not feel sick.
- Do NOT use a facemask meant for a health care worker.
- In addition, do NOT place cloth face coverings on young children under age 2, anyone who has trouble breathing, or is unconscious, incapacitated or otherwise unable to remove the mask without assistance.
- Continue to keep about 6 feet between yourself and others. The cloth face cover is not a substitute for social distancing.
- For more information, see NCDC guidelines, including how to create your own cloth face cover.
HELP SLOW THE SPREAD OF COVID-19
Follow these steps to help keep you and others safe:
HOW TO PROTECT YOURSELF
To reduce the risk of spread of COVID-19, members of the public are advised to adhere to the following measures:
1. Wash your hands frequently with soap under running water for at least 30 seconds or use alcohol-based sanitiser if water is not available.
2. Avoid close contact with anyone showing symptoms of respiratory illness. Maintain at least 2 metres (5 feet) distance between yourself and anyone who is coughing or sneezing repeatedly
3. Cover your mouth and nose properly with a tissue paper when sneezing and/or coughing. Dispose of the tissue properly immediately after use. You may also cough into your elbow if a tissue is not available.
4. Do not mingle with people or congregate if you feel unwell with symptoms like fever, cough, sneezing or difficulty breathing.
ABOUT CORONAVIRUS DISEASE (COVID-19)
COVID-19 appears to cause mild to severe respiratory symptoms like fever, cough and difficulty breathing. From current evidence, about 98 persons out of 100 persons with the disease will recover. In about 10- 15% of cases, it will cause a severe illness. It appears that death is not a common outcome and occurs mostly in elderly patients with underlying health issues.
There is no specific treatment yet for COVID-19. However, many of the symptoms can be treated. Treatment is based on the patient’s clinical condition but supportive care for infected persons can be highly effective.
IF YOU ARE SICK
According to the NCDC, COVID-19 symptoms include fever, shortness of breath and a cough. Keep track of your symptoms, which may appear two to 14 days after exposure, and call to seek medical attention if your symptoms worsen, such as difficulty breathing.
Mild Illness
Most people have mild illness and are able to recover at home. If you think you are sick:
- Stay home and call your doctor for medical advice if you think you have been exposed to COVID-19 and develop symptoms. Older adults and people of any age with serious underlying medical conditions should call a health care provider as soon as symptoms start.
- Separate yourself from other people in your home. On your own, clean and disinfect all surfaces daily and high-touch surfaces frequently throughout the day in your sick room and designated bathroom. Have a healthy household member do the same for surfaces in other parts of the home.
Contact NCDC Toll-Free Number: 0800 9700 0010 Mobile number: 07036708970, SMS: 08099555577, WhatsApp: 07087110839, Twitter/Facebook: @NCDCgov. Email: info@ncdc.gov.ng
Emergency Warning Signs
If your symptoms become severe, call to get medical attention immediately. Warning signs include:
- Trouble breathing
- Persistent pain or pressure in the chest
- New confusion or inability to arouse
- Bluish lips or face
FINDING UP-TO-DATE INFORMATION Visit Nigeria Centre for Disease Control