…intensifies screening, testing in 18 LGAs, 192 wards
As part of efforts to contain the coronavirus (COVD-19) pandemic in Edo State, the government has intensified Active Case Search (ACS) activities in 400 rural and urban communities across the state, contact tracing over 655 persons and screening over 75, 000 others.
Commissioner for Health, Dr. Patrick Okundia, who disclosed this to journalists in Benin City, reassured that the state government is resolute and committed to contain the COVID-19 pandemic in all communities across the state.
According to him, the massive screening and testing ongoing in various centres across the state was part of ramped up efforts by the Governor Godwin Obaseki-led administration to curtail the spread of the deadly virus.
The commissioner noted that from the onset of the outbreak, Edo State has recorded a total of 523 suspected cases of COVID-19 and 65 confirmed cases spread across nine Local Government Areas (LGAs) of the state, including Oredo, Esan West, Egor, Ovia North East, Ikpoba-Okha, Uhunmwode, Etsako Central, Esan South East, and Akoko-Edo.
He added: “The Edo State Government has continued to step up measures to contain the coronavirus pandemic in state, as we are committed to protecting our people. As part of these efforts, the state has opened five screening centres at border entries into the state, in addition to the existing screening and testing facilities, and mobile posts across the state; these are currently being scaled up across the 18 LGAs and 192 wards of Edo State as we plan to screen a minimum of 500,000 people and test 5,000 individuals in the next few weeks.”
“We urge all residents to make themselves available for the ongoing massive screening and testing, as it will complement government’s efforts at curtailing the spread of the virus. Also, we charge you to comply with all government directives, aimed at keeping you safe and healthy. Stay at home and observe social distancing guidelines and other precautionary measures against the spread of the infectious disease, including regular hand washing with soap under running water and the use alcohol-based hand sanitiser,” Okundia added.
