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The Lagos State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Jide Idris, has warned residents to take precautionary measures against being infected with a new virus, known as Coronavirus.
Coronavirus is a virus which primarily infects the upper respiratory and gastrointestinal tract of mammals and birds. There are up to five different currently known strains of coronaviruses that infect humans.
Idris, in a statement on Monday, said the infection, which had claimed over 80 lives globally, especially in the Middle East, has yet to be detected in the state.
But in spite of this, he called on residents to maintain good personal and environmental hygiene to reduce the risk of infection.
He said studies were still being carried out globally to detect its exact mode of transmission but some have confirmed that close bodily contact with an infected person – through sneezing, coughing or a handshake constituted a risk.
Idris stated that the human coronavirus, which usually causes mild to moderate upper respiratory tract illnesses, could progress to severe respiratory illness and pneumonia, particularly in old and very young persons, adding that its symptoms include runny nose, sore throat, shortness of breath and fever.
He said, “Coronavirus has been detected in some parts of the world recently. There is no specific treatment for any illnesses caused by the virus. Most people will recover on their own and they may require supportive treatment, which includes staying at home, resting and drinking a lot of fluids. However, serious cases will need special medical care.”
Idris pleaded with travellers on holy pilgrimage particularly to Mecca, Saudi Arabia to get vaccinated against meningitis, yellow fever and flu – and to also adhere to necessary preventive measures.
He charged health workers in the state to protect themselves and also report suspected cases to any local government or council development area nearest to them or the ministry.
