COVID-19: Let’s pay short-term price for long-term goal, NCDC tells Nigerians

The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) said on Friday the country’s high population density made it more susceptible to transmission of infectious diseases such as coronavirus.

The NCDC Director-General, Dr. Chikwe Ihekweazu, made the observation at the Presidential Task Force (PTF) briefing on COVID-19 in Abuja.

Ihekweazu said that despite the large population, the country had an opportunity to ensure the effectiveness of its strategy to combat the pandemic.

He said that Nigerians would need to stay physically apart to flatten the COVID-19 curve.

The NCDC chief said: “Nigerians are socially intense people, but we need to pay a short-term price for a long-term goal.

“Now, more than ever, we call on the people to observe physical distance while maintaining social connection.

“We have an opportunity to ensure our strategy is effective.”

He said that wearing of masks alone could not prevent the spread of COVID-19, adding that it should be adopted in addition to other recommendations.

“Even when we make a decision on face masks, that is not going to solve the problem.

“It will just be an addition to social distancing measures,” he added.

The Ihekweazu said that religious and traditional leaders had a role to play in giving accurate information on the COVID-19 pandemic.

READ ALSO: Nigeria’s COVID-19 figure hits 305 as NDDC confirms 17 fresh cases in Lagos, 6 others

He said that as Nigerians looked forward to Easter celebration, there was need for all to take responsibility in the prevention and control of the pandemic.

“Today is Good Friday, it emphasises the importance of sacrifice for a longer-term goal,” he concluded.

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