Letters

On coronavirus in Nigeria

THE news of a confirmed case of coronavirus in Nigeria has sent waves of shock or fears in the minds of Nigerians. It was reported that an Italian national who flew from Milan to Nigeria had developed symptoms of the disease in Ogun state but was screened and confirmed positive in Lagos. Currently, the victim is in isolation centre and responding to the treatment.

Until the recorded case of the disease in Nigeria, coronavirus has speedily spread from China into other countries; Japan, Italy and Iran. Sadly, Nigeria has recorded its first case.

The symptoms of the disease include runny nose, pneumonia and fever. The case of coronavirus has come at a wrong time when the country is battling with the outbreak of Lassa fever .Nigerians need to worry about the emerging case of coronavirus for two or more reasons; the disease has no cure and can be contacted through mingling with people who have been infected. This raises fears in our public places.

Secondly, our deteriorated health sector which is not well equipped cannot provide emergency response to the victims.

With the recorded case of the disease, there is the need for government to embark upon preventive measures. This calls for screening in our airports and seaports as well as aggressive sensitisation campaign which include free distribution of face mask and sanitisers. Our health personal should also be on red alert. These measures will go a long way towards curbing the spread of the disease.