Written By: Chinma Enem

That Corona virus is real cannot be over emphasized. The fact remains that the pandemic has eaten deep into the Human race. Since the first case of the virus was confirmed in 2019, it has put everyone in disarray. Worst still, the deadly disease has kept increasing in their numbers. With many African countries and indeed the global community currently with recorded cases, governments continue to roll out increasing robust measures to halt the spread and to contain the pandemic, which has claimed a number of lives.

COVID-19, which is the disease caused by the new corona virus that emerged in Wuhan, a city in China, in December 2019, has recorded severe socio-economic and political meltdown and global depression. It has equally been confirmed in almost all the countries across the globe and is considered a pandemic.

With the help of the World Health Organization prospect of a vaccine has been put in place as a preventive measure to slow the spread of the respiratory disease. There are equally tremendous efforts to sequence the genetic materials of COVID-19. This unprecedented speed is attributed to the early Chinese efforts. China had, in early January, engaged research groups around the world to grow the live virus and study how it invades the human cells and make people sick.

It is diagnosed that Corona virus can be spread from person to person. This happens through proximity to an infected person and inhaling droplets generated from coughs and sneezes or touching a surface where these droplets land and then touching one’s face or nose. There are symptoms associated with the virus ranging from cough or sneeze, to fever and shortness of breath. The symptoms are showing up in people within 14days of exposure to the virus.

There are basic protective measures against coronavirus as people are advised to take care of their health and protect others by washing their hands regularly and thoroughly with soap and running water. People are enjoined to use hand sanitizer quite often. This helps to kill the virus that maybe on our hands. We must maintain social distancing of about six feet and stay away from anyone who is coughing or sneezing.

Ndi Anambra must endeavor to practice respiratory hygiene. This means covering your mouth and nose with your bent elbow or tissue when you cough or sneeze and then dispose the used tissue immediately.

Anambra State government has taken several precautionary measures to ensure that the virus does not spread across the state. The government banned all public gatherings in the state with more than 30 people, including weddings, traditional marriages, festivals, funerals and any ceremonial activities. Borders and markets have equally been closed for now.

There is also a mandate for people to stay at home and stay informed of the latest development of COVID-19. Let us avoid unnecessary movements and traveling as this will help protect us from possible COVID-19 and other viruses.

If you begin to feel unwell, even with mild symptoms such as headache, and slight runny nose, avoid contact with others until you are effectively tested and treated. If you develop fever, cough and difficulty breathing, seek medical advice promptly as this may be due to a respiratory infection or other serious condition. This will also help to prevent possible spread of COVID-19 and other viruses. CORONAVIRUS IS REAL; STAY SAFE, STAY AT HOME, STAY ALIVE.