Ekiti State Government on Saturday forewarned residents on the presence of the Delta variant of COVID-19 virus in Nigeria.
They were informed by the government of the effects of the virus on infected persons within a short time and how it can resist antibodies in the blood, among other worrisome attributes.
The Commissioner for Health, Dr Oyebanji Filani and the Coordinator, COVID-19 Response Task Force, Prof. Mobolaji Aluko, in a joint communique disclosed that WHO described the variant as the “most transmissible variant”, with the ability to go undetected in many hosts without the typical symptoms, yet severely impacting other infected persons within a short time.
Filani and Aluko also said “World Health Organisation data revealed that for seven consecutive weeks, Africa has recorded a consistent increase in COVID-19 cases”.
They encouraged Ekiti residents to “remain vigilant and cautious to ensure that we do not suffer the same fate in Ekiti State and in our country.
The statement read;“Ekiti State COVID-19 Response Task Force is set to heighten surveillance and the strict enforcement of all existing measures aimed at containing the pandemic in the state. All indigenes and residents are hereby enjoined to adhere to the government’s public health advisories and regulations in our collective interests.
“We must not relent in the practice of preventive measures such as the proper use of masks in public gatherings, maintenance of hand hygiene through proper handwashing or use of alcohol-based hand sanitizers and social distancing.
“The government of Ekiti State will continue to work closely with the Federal Government and her agencies as well as our development partners to prevent the spread of this disease, no matter the strain.
“One of such ways is through the implementation of a phased vaccination campaign which remains the most effective means of curbing this pandemic and which should be embraced by all. We therefore encourage members of the public to seize the opportunity to receive their vaccine doses once the next phase commences.
“We, however, warn that whether vaccinated or not, we must not let our guards down, especially as the season of cultural festivals and social events is upon us in our dear state.”