December 10, (THEWILL) – The Coalition Against COVID-19 (CACOVID) has asked Nigerians not to let their guard down in the fight against the Omicron variant of COVID-19.
The variant, which was first identified by scientists in South Africa on November 24, 2021, has been labelled a “variant of concern” (VOC) by the World Health Organisation (WHO).
CACOVID said in a report that while further studies are currently underway to better understand the virus, findings have revealed that Omicron has several mutations that may greatly impact its spread and the severity of illness it causes.
The strain, it said, has been detected in at least 20 countries, including Belgium, Hong Kong, Israel, Germany, Australia, the United Kingdom and very recently, Nigeria as reported by the National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC).
In its report, the organisation elaborated that the cases were recent arrivals in the country with a history of travel to South Africa in the past week.
It stated that a follow up to ensure isolation, linkage to clinical care, contact tracing and other relevant response activities have commenced.
Nigeria and many other countries have reacted swiftly by placing a raft of travel restrictions and protocols since the news of the outbreak.
It is mandatory to present a negative COVID-19 test result done not more than 48 hours before departure for all inbound travelers to Nigeria.
Additionally, all outbound passengers regardless of the requirements of destination countries are expected to present evidence of full vaccination or a negative COVID-19 PCR test done not later than 48 hours before departure.
While much remains unknown about the new variant, its transmissible nature is quite evident.
It said there is a need to remain steadfast to the safety protocols, which include wearing of mask, maintaining social distancing, frequent washing of hands and getting vaccinated.
It said: “No doubt, interrupting transmission of the Omicron virus remains our best defence against it and path to returning to normalcy and the COVID-19 vaccination plays a huge role in this regard as it helps reduce the risk of getting and spreading the virus and prevents one from getting seriously ill even if they do get infected.”
The organisation also appealed to those who are yet to take their second dose of the vaccine to do so in order to be fully immunised against the virus.
CACOVID continues to support the NCDC in its cause to eradicate COVID-19 in the country through the dissemination of helpful communication materials that’ll sensitise Nigerians against the virus as well as provision of equipment crucial to the fight.
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