The Minister of Health, Ehanire Osagie has said that Nigeria might soon exit the second wave of the Coronavirus disease.
Osagie who spoke at a briefing by the Presidential Task Force on COVID-19 on Monday February 22, said the country has been recording a decline in the number of COVID-19 cases.
The Minister also disclosed that the decreased positivity rate from sustained testing in states, is synonymous with global trends.
He said “This trend in reduction compares with global observations of seeming decline in COVID-19 cases, signifying that the second wave may be receding.
“On 21st of February 2021, 521 new infections and 8 deaths occurred in 20 states. The sustained testing in states has decreased positively rate.
“We are, however, not drawing conclusions yet and certainly not declaring victory, but rather watching developments as they unfold nationally and internationally, ready to make use of comparative advantages that may emerge.”
On the outbreak of the Ebola virus disease in Guinea, Osagie said the Nigerian government is closely monitoring the situation and also collaborating with the West African Health Organization (WAHO).
He added “Nigeria is closely observing developments on the outbreak of Ebola virus disease in Guinea and working with West African Health Organization (WAHO) to contain it in the outbreak country of Guinea and prevent the spread to other countries in the region.
“We are pleased to note that the ECOWAS countries adjacent to the epicenter are taking strict measures with regard checking movement of persons.”
The Minister stated that though Nigeria has been classified as a moderate Ebola risk country because of its distance from Guinea, Port Health Service officers have been on high alert to step up border surveillance of travellers arriving by air or overland from destinations around the outbreak country to avert disease importation.
