The result of the sample of the first suspected case of coronavirus in Abia State has come out negative. Abia State commissioner for Information, Chief John Okiyi-Kalu made the disclosure on Sunday.
Reliable sources confirmed that there was pandemonium at Umuobasi Ibeku in Umuahia North Local Government Area of the state, where a sick resident was said to have exhibited symptoms of COVID-19, making residents cower in fear.
It was learnt that the sample of the yet-to-be-identified woman was reportedly collected by a team from the State Emergency Response Team and was taken to Edo State for test and confirmation
But Okiyi-Kalu in the release said “The sample of the Umuobasi Street, Umuahia, woman sent to NCDC for testing has returned and it returned a negative result.
“The pleasant implication of this is that as at today, there is no confirmed case of COVID-19 in Abia State.
“To GOD be the GLORY!
“Let all hands continue to be on deck to stop this virus from coming to our state. Wash your hands regularly, maintain the recommended social distance and, please, stay at home. If you suspect that you or anyone known to you may have contracted the virus, please call 0700 2242 362 and we will take it up from there.
“We know that this lockdown period is not easy on our hardworking people but it is a necessary sacrifice we all must make to stop this virus from ravaging our people. Make the sacrifice so that all of us will be alive to celebrate God’s faithfulness.
“Soon, the government will deliver palliatives to vulnerable persons in our communities but whatever the government will do cannot be enough for everyone that needs help. Be your brother’s keeper by sharing food materials with those around you.
“Together, we will win this war against Coronavirus.”