- COVID 19 Not Gone, Lagos Urges Continued Vigilance
- Mustafa noted that widespread vaccination and booster doses have strengthened community level protection
- Warned that relaxing these basic practices could expose people to not just COVID 19 but other infectious diseases
The Lagos State Primary Health Care Board has assured residents that infection prevention and control measures remain firmly in place across primary healthcare centres in the state.
Eko Hot Blog reports that the Permanent Secretary, Ibrahim Mustafa, gave the assurance while reacting to reports of a new COVID 19 case in Cross River State.
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According to him, Lagos has not let its guard down, stressing that protocols introduced during the pandemic are still being enforced in health facilities.
“We cannot say COVID 19 has completely left us. What has changed is that vaccination has improved immunity, making most infections milder and less likely to result in severe outcomes,” he said.
Mustafa noted that widespread vaccination and booster doses have strengthened community level protection, significantly reducing both transmission and severity.
However, he revealed that COVID 19 vaccines are currently out of stock nationwide, adding that the Federal Government is making efforts to replenish supplies.
“We had vaccines before, but they have been exhausted. The government is working to restock, and once available, the public will have access again,” he explained.
He added that infection prevention practices such as regular handwashing, use of sanitisers and wearing of face masks for symptomatic individuals have now become routine across healthcare centres.
Health workers, he said, are also required to maintain strict hygiene standards, including the use of gloves for each patient and proper disposal after use.
“Handwashing before and after patient contact is critical. These are simple but effective measures that protect both health workers and patients,” Mustafa added.
He warned that relaxing these basic practices could expose people to not just COVID 19 but other infectious diseases.
Meanwhile, the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention confirmed a fresh COVID 19 case in Cross River State involving a 53 year old foreign national.
The agency said the patient has been isolated and is responding to treatment, while all identified contacts are being monitored.
“There is no evidence at this time of widespread transmission,” said Jide Idris.
Authorities have urged the public to remain calm but vigilant, noting that continued awareness and adherence to safety measures are key to preventing future outbreaks.
