Edo Govt Reiterates Need To protect The Elderly As Confirmed Cases Rise To 851

Worried by the rising number of confirmed cases of coronavirus (COVID-19) and the community spread of the disease across Edo State, the government has restated the need for all residents to observe safety and preventive measures.

Commissioner for Health, Dr. Patrick Okundia, who spoke to journalists in Benin City, said physical distancing, compulsory use of face masks, hand hygiene and other epidemiological safety rules must be strictly followed in order to prevent further spread of COVID-19 and protect the people, especially the elderly, who account for most of the fatalities recorded in the state.

According to Okundia, “As a government, our highest priority is the health, safety and well-being of all Edo people, and that includes the elderly who are among the most vulnerable to COVID-19.

“Data have shown that adults of 60 years and above, especially those with pre-existing medical conditions, especially heart disease, lung disease, diabetes or cancer are more likely to have severe, even deadly coronavirus infection than other age groups. This points to the danger ahead if we do not take decisive steps to protect ourselves and our senior citizens who constitute only five percent of our state’s population”.

The commissioner continued, “To compliment government’s efforts at containing the pandemic and protecting all residents,  we urge you to stay at home and observe all precautionary measures against the spread of the infectious disease, including observing physical distancing, regular handwashing with soap under running water and the use of alcohol-based hand sanitisers. Cover your mouth and nose properly when sneezing and/or coughing.

“On our part, we’re working closely with all community, religious and traditional leaders, relevant agencies and other stakeholders to ensure that appropriate measures are taken to protect our vulnerable population and indeed all Edo citizens.”

He further reassured that the state was making steady progress in the management of the pandemic, adding “Edo State has so far recorded 851 confirmed cases, 5647 suspected cases, 257 discharged persons, 32 deaths and is contact-tracing 2510 persons”