It is now very imperative that every Nigerian, including the most progressive and patriotic people of Anambra State, the Light of the Nation and the Touch Bearers of Igbo Nation fully accept without doubt that Coronavirus is a crystal reality and a global pandemic. Hence, it is very pertinent that everyone should comply with the World Health Organization and the Anambra State Government COVID-19 Basic Protective Measures of stay at home to stay safe.

Corona viruses are of the family of viruses known as CORONAVIRIDAE for containing strains that cause potentially deadly diseases in mammals and birds. In humans, they are typically spread via airborne droplets of fluid produced by infected individuals.

World Health Organization W.H.O confirmed that an animal source appeared most likely to be the primary source of the outbreak. Cobra, Viper and other snakes are said to be the source of the novel virus, according to Chinese scientists. Raw consumption of these snakes with venomous substances destroyed the structural body immunity of the consumers and created a new Coronavirus strain from the Coronaviridae Family.

Consequently, W.H.O declared COVID-19, which has infected millions of people globally, though with thousands of recovery, a pandemic, forcing global lockdown, recession and depression.

In Nigeria, COVID-19 has infected hundreds of people. However, it is commendable that Nigeria and Brazil recorded their first cases of the pandemic on the same February 27, 2020. Whereas Brazil recorded over twenty-four thousand cases and thousands of deaths after forty-three days, Nigeria recorded less than 500 cases with tens of deaths. This calls for celebration. Indeed, Nigerians have cause to be grateful to God and thankful to their health care professionals and other essential workers as well as both the federal and the state governments for marshalling out strategic measures to keep many alive today. For instance, in Anambra State, Governor Willie Obiano has restricted the movement of people and imposed total lockdown for 2 weeks after recording an index case in the state. The essence is to protect the people from the deadly virus.

Ndi Anambra, nay Nigerians are therefore requested to join force with government to get rid of the pandemic. Let us continue the frequent hand washing with soap and running water or the use of alcohol-based sanitizers. When coughing or sneezing, cover your mouth and nose with fixed elbow or tissue and throw away the tissue immediately after and wash your hands.

Avoid close contact with anyone who has fever and cough; if you have fever, cough and difficulty breathing, seek medical care early and share previous travel history with your health care provider. When visiting live markets in areas currently experiencing cases of the virus, avoid direct unprotected contact with live animals and surfaces in contact with animals.

The consumption of raw or undercooked animal products should be avoided. Raw meat, milk or animal organs should be handled with care, to avoid cross-contamination with uncooked foods. Let us continue to maintain at least one metre or three3 feet distance between you and anyone who is coughing or sneezing. Avoid touching eyes, nose and mouth. The hand can pick up the viruse and once contaminated, hands can transfer the virus to your eyes, nose or mouth. From there, the virus can enter your body and can make you sick.

Make sure you and the people around you, follow good respiratory hygiene. This means covering your mouth and nose with your bent elbow or tissue when you cough or sneeze.If you have fever, cough and difficulty breathing, seek medical care early. Above all, stay informed on the latest developments about COVID-19. Follow advice given by the government and healthcare providers.

CORONAVIRUS IS A CRYSTAL REALITY – LET’S SIT AT HOME TO STAY SAFE.