…Warns private hospitals against handling cases without approval
The Presidential Task Force on the Control of COVID-19 in the country said it has moved to Kano state to curtail the spread of the pandemic.
Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF) and Chairman of the Presidential Task Force, Mr Boss Mustapha, said this on Thursday during the daily press briefing.
He said the Presidential Task Force has instructed the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) to work in conjunction with Kano state government on immediate contacts ‘tracing to contain the speed with which the disease is being spread in the state.
“The situation in Kano is still being assessed and monitored closely. Based on preliminary findings, the PTF has directed the NCDC to send an enhanced support team, mobilize resources for contact tracing and immediately ensure that necessary steps are taken in conjunction with State Government to contain the spread of the pandemic in Kano and stop the city from becoming the next epicentre,” he said.
The SGF also raised concern over the refusal of private healthcare facilities to comply with the directive of getting accredited by the Federal Ministry of Health before treating cases related to COVID-19.
He said treating COVID-19 cases by private health facilities without approval poses serious danger not just to the health and life of the personnel working in such facilities, but to those of their loved ones and the general public.
“The PTF views with some measure of concern the non-compliance by private medical facilities with the directive to seek accreditation before treating COVID-19 related cases.
“The highly infectious nature of COVID-19 if not well managed in purpose-built facilities and specialists, pose a lot of danger not just to the medical staff in such hospitals but also to other patients and loved ones at home. We therefore appeal strongly to operators of private medical facilities wishing to continue to treat COVID-19 cases to apply to the Federal Ministry of Health urgently, for accreditation”, he said.
He appealed to Nigerians to continue to obey all the advisories issued so far to stay safe from the danger of contracting the dreaded disease.
He said this is the period that citizens need to show love and concern to each other, especially towards those categorised as the most vulnerable among the population.
He said: “I encourage you to comply with all the advisories and to continue to be your brothers’ keeper especially given the unintended impact of the lockdown on the poor, the needy, the aged, the vulnerable, persons living with disabilities and the sick. This is the time to show the essence of the fear of God and love for humanity in us.
“The PTF notes that the number of cases reported have risen to 873 across 25 states and the FCT with 197 discharges and 28 fatalities. I have mentioned these numbers in order to underscore the need for citizens to comply with advisories strictly so that we can slowdown the spread of the virus. These advisories still remain the most effective way of flattening the curve.
“Thee issue of stigmatization still persists and it is counter-productive to our efforts. This disease does not discriminate on status, creed, tribe or color and anybody can be infected.
“It is my humble appeal that once you are infected by this disease, you should immediately report to appropriate medical facilities in your own interest and the interest of your loved ones. COVID-19 is not a condition and there is no need to stigmatize anybody. I must remind all of us that over 90% of infected persons recover from this disease. In this regard, I urge all those who have recovered from this disease to tell their stories.
“The PTF has continued to collaborate with the Governors in the various states and the outcome of the conversation with the NGF will form a critical part of the recommendations to be made to Mr. President in the coming days.”
