WEAR A MASK & SAVE LIVES

Coronaviruses are zoonotic, meaning they are normally transmitted between animals and people. The coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is caused by a new strain of coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2) that has not been previously identified in humans. It was first reported to WHO on the 31st of December, 2019 in Wuhan, China.

Cough Fever Shivering /shaking (chills) Body pain Headache Sore throat Recent loss of taste or smell Difficulty in breathing/shortness of breath Diarrhoea/abdominal pain Runny nose/catarrh Fatigue (tiredness)

This means strictly staying at home or identified accommodation, away from situations where you mix with family members or the general public, for a period of 14 days. Guidelines can be found on NCDC WEBSITE

This is an effective strategy to reduce physical interaction between people towards limiting the spread of COVID-19. This means maintaining a distance of at least 2 metres from others. The NCDC guidelines on this can be found here. This measure involves strict adherence to: Non-contact greetings (avoiding shaking of hands and hugs) Maintaining at least 2 metres physical distance between yourself and individuals Avoiding gatherings of more than 20 persons and any gathering where physical distancing is not observed

Scientists and public health officials are working hard to identify the source of the SARS-CoV-2 which is the virus that causes COVID-19. The initial transmission appeared to be from an animal source, but there has been person-to-person transmission in countries.

There have been reported outbreaks of COVID-19 in some closed settings, such as restaurants, nightclubs, places of worship or places of work where people may be shouting, talking, or singing. This means that aerosol transmission, especially in indoor locations where there are crowded and inadequately ventilated spaces where infected persons spend long periods of time with others, cannot be ruled out. WHO has called for more studies to investigate such instances and assess their significance for transmission of COVID-19.

To reduce the risk of infection or spread of COVID-19, members of the public are advised to adhere to the following hand and respiratory hygiene measures: Wash your hands regularly with soap and water or use an alcohol-based sanitiser if no water and soap is available Use a non-medical face mask/covering for all persons while in public spaces. The NCDC has published an advisory on the use of face cloth masks Practice no-touch greetings Maintain at least 2 metres physical distance between yourself and anyone who is coughing or sneezing Avoid crowded spaces such as open markets, crowded supermarkets and pharmacies Adhere to other national and state directives This means that aerosol transmission, especially in indoor locations where there are crowded and inadequately ventilated spaces where infected persons spend long periods of time with others, cannot be ruled out. WHO has called for more studies to investigate such instances and assess their significance for transmission of COVID-19.

Currently, there is no evidence to support transmission of COVID-19 through imported goods or packages from countries with confirmed cases. Till date, there is no known case of COVID-19 in Nigeria associated with imported goods.

Currently, there is no evidence that pregnant women are at higher risk of infection or complications from COVID-19. However, due to changes that may occur during pregnancy, pregnant women are always advised to stay at home and adhere strictly to physical distancing measures and hygiene practices. The Federal Ministry of Health, NCDC and partners have published Guidelines for Pregnant Women and Nursing Mothers.

If you are showing symptoms of COVID-19, immediately contact your state helpline or the NCDC on 080097000010 (toll-free) for further guidance. It is important you avoid contact with others to limit the spread of the disease. The State Ministry of Health supported by NCDC will arrange for sample collection and transportation to the laboratory.

The NCDC has published Guidance for Employers and Businesses in Nigeria. In line with the directives from the Federal Government of Nigeria, markets and locations of economic activities will have controlled access; the financial sector shall be fully opened with banks operating normal working hours as well as the manufacturing industry and gradual opening of the informal sector Businesses are advised to display signages in office or business premises reminding staff and visitors to maintain good and respiratory hygiene. Encourage sick employees to stay at home if they are unwell. Ensure physical distancing and routine cleaning of high contact areas such as toilets, door handles, telephones.

From the evidence so far, the virus causing COVID-19 can be transmitted in ALL AREAS, including areas with hot and humid weather.

Where can I find data on the number of cases and deaths from COVID-19 in Nigeria? The number of cases and deaths from COVID-19 in Nigeria can be found on NCDC WEBSITE

There is no specific cure yet for COVID-19. However, there are many ongoing clinical trials to test various potential antivirals. Current management of cases aims to relieve the symptoms while the body’s immune system fights the illness.