Akwa Ibom State government has confirmed the infiltration of the new COVID-19 Delta variant in the state, with an increase in cases resulting from rising infections.
This was contained in a press statement released by Secretary to the State Government and Chairman of the state’s COVID-19 committee, Dr. Emmanuel Ekuwem, who expressed displeasure over the negligence of residents to the compliance of precautionary measures set to mitigate the spread of the virus.
“You will recall that exactly one month ago, precisely on the 22nd of July 2021, we had Covid-19 Management Committee Press update no 23. In that update, we informed you of the onset of another wave of the Coronavirus infection and called for caution and vigilance by everyone. We also called on citizens to adhere to the Covid-19 guidelines by Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) and the State.
“It has since then been confirmed by NCDC that the Delta variant of the covid-19 virus found in other parts of the country is in our dear State and that would partly explain the rapid increase in the number of cases in the State because of its high infectivity rate.
“It has, therefore, become imperative that we take actions to rein in the spread of the infection in the state. We have however noted, sadly, that the necessary precautions and guidelines earlier recommended are hardly being adhered to by most people thereby jeopardizing our health and making the control of the pandemic very difficult.”
He, however, stated that the government has put in place new steps to mitigate the pandemic through vaccinations, the use of face masks, hand sanitizers, social distancing among others.
Ekuwem hinted that the state has taken delivery of sixty-three thousand and thirty-six (63,336) doses of the Modena vaccine as the full rollout of vaccinations will commence immediately.
He enjoined all residents to get vaccinated and protected against the virus, noting that the vaccine is safe and effective, and will be available at designated areas in Uyo and PHC Bases in the different LGAs.
The Chairman further directed that all social spaces including religious gatherings should run at half capacity with services lasting not more than an hour while ensuring strict compliance with COVID-19
“Ensure social distancing of not less than one meter at all times. Avoid overcrowded areas especially indoors. All non-essential social gatherings should be reconsidered with the view to drastically reducing the scale and scope or suspending the same at this time. These include Burials, weddings, birthday celebrations, etc.
“Social distancing in tricycles and in Mini-buses and wearing of face masks are to be strictly complied with. Hotels, sit-outs, clubs, schools, transport companies, supermarkets, Banks, pharmacies should all ensure compliance with all Covid-19 preventive measures in their facilities.”
“Report any suspicious symptoms such as fever, cough, difficulty in breathing and body pains, and weakness to the nearest Covid-19 facility or use the following helplines 08000275664, 08189411111.
“All Covid-19 monitoring mechanisms were reactivated to ensure strict compliance with Covid-19 guidelines and protocols.”
He added that enforcement teams have been instructed to apprehend anyone flouting any of the directives as businesses, worship places, and corporate organizations risk shut down if found non-compliant with stipulated guidelines.
