The Director-General of the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC), Chikwe Ihekweazu, has revealed that some of the infected members of his team are working from their various sick beds.
He made this known during the daily briefing of the Presidential Taskforce on COVID-19 in Abuja aired by Channels TV and monitored by POLITICS NIGERIA.
The NCDC boss acknowledged the difficulties encountered by Muslims during this year’s Ramadan fasting. “This must be a different year for Muslims.”
He stated that the advisories on its website have been updated for the Muslim faithful. “If you look at our website, you’ll see our new advisories as it pertains to public health.” Mr Ihekweazu also appreciated the health workers who are at the frontline of the pandemic.
“After work yesterday, I spoke with some members of my team who have been infected considering their line of duty. I called them to encourage them but they ended up encouraging me,” He stated.
He added that some of the infected are busy working on their laptops contributing to the response.”They said it is better working than sitting down idly, watching the television.”
Moreover, in his address, he thanked truck drivers, cleaners and other providers of essential services during the lockdown. Addressing journalists, the Chairman of the Taskforce who is also the Secretary-General of the Federation, Boss Mustapha, made some clarifications as regards the easing of the lockdown in the FCT, Lagos and Ogun states.
“The overnight curfew is applicable nationwide. Inter-state travels are banned except the movement of agro products, petroleum products and essential services.”
Mr Mustapha, however, noted that the management of selected businesses who are ready to open should ensure the fumigation and decontamination of its workplace and premises.
Other boxes to be ticked include putting in place mechanisms for social distancing and provision of hand sanitizers and gloves.
As of the time of filing this report, there are 1532 persons have contracted the disease while 255 patients have recovered and have been discharged.
Meanwhile, the disease has claimed forty-four lives across the country.
