The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) has advised Nigerians on the need to celebrate the coming Valentine day with carefulness, especially as the world still battles the dreadful COVID19 pandemic.
This is coming as the NCDC Director General, Dr. Chikwe Ihekweazu, said individuals celebrating the ‘love day’ must ensure maximum safety of family and loved ones to avoid contracting coronavirus.
The DG also implored institutions, business owners not to forget adhering strictly to the given protocols that prevent the spread of the disease.
Ihekweazu, who spoke with The Guardian said: “While we recognise that people want to celebrate Valentine’s Day, we caution that they must do so safely. The COVID-19 pandemic has changed our lives in several ways, especially our physical and social interactions.
“We appreciate that the public health measures in place to contain the spread of the virus may be difficult, as it requires a change in people’s lifestyle. However, these are steps that must be taken to reduce the risk of spread of the disease.
“We urge Nigerians to think of every decision they make in celebrating as one that could contribute to life or death. Sadly, over 1,600 people in Nigeria have died from COVID-19 (as at Wednesday, February 10). Please, avoid large gatherings, especially if indoors, and take responsibility to protect yourself and those around you.
“NCDC continues to work with relevant government institutions and all states under the leadership of the Presidential Task Force (PTF) on COVID-19; we encourage Nigerians to continue to take the necessary measures to themselves and our country.
He added, “As we plan towards the safe celebration of the Valentine season, we need the support of all Nigerians to limit the spread of the virus. This means adhering strictly to public health measures, including avoiding large gatherings. Please, continue frequent hand hygiene through hand washing with soap and water or use of an alcohol-based sanitiser, wear a facemask properly, especially in public places and maintain physical distance of at least two metres.”
“We appeal to Nigerians to adhere to these measures, as we must work hard to avoid an increase in the number of cases. As Nigeria’s public health institute, NCDC has also published various guidelines to inform and educate Nigerians on the COVID-19 situation and relevant public health and social measures.”