By Yusuf Abba, Katsina
As a measure of preparedness for the fight against the Novel Corona Virus, Covid-19, the government of Katsina State is building Emergency Infectious Diseases Wards in designated hospitals across the state.
The state governor, Rt. Hon. Aminu Bello Masari, who made this known during a press briefing also assured indigenes and residents of the state that his administration has made available funding to the Ministry of Health to ensure that hospitals in the state were well equipped to respond to any suspected case of the virus.
In a release signed by the
Senior Special Adviser Social Media, Government House,
Comrd Bashir Ya’u, the governor was also quoted to have advised residents of the state to observe personal hygiene and other health safety measures that would help prevent infections.
The statement reads “my dear people of Katsina state you are all aware of the current pandemic ravaging the world emanating from a viral disease ‘the corona Virasu popularly known as Covid-19. The outbreak of the disease was first noticed in China in December 2019. The disease has now spread to almost all countries in the world.
“The disease affects mostly the respiratory system mimicking common cold. Symptoms commonly associated with the disease include; fever cough, chest pain and difficulty in breathing and when complications develop, it can lead to death. Confirmed cases have been reported in Nigeria and other countries in Africa as well.
“You are aware we had one suspected case that was tested and found to be negative this week.
It is on this background that I call on the good people of Katsina to be fully conscious, and be very vigilant of this global crisis. It is a situation that is real and can became a great challenge if we stay ignorant and allow it to spread among us.
“Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) said: “If you hear of an outbreak of plague in a land,do not enter it; but if the plague outbreaks out in a place while you are in it, do not leave that place.” He also said: “Those with contagious diseases should be kept away from those who are healthy.”
“He also strongly encouraged human beings to adhere to hygienic practices that would keep people safe from infection.
He affirmed, “Cleanliness is part of faith.” Wash your hands after you wake up; you do not know where your hands have moved while you sleep. “
“The blessings of food lie in washing hands before and after eating.”
It’s clear that the teachings of the prophet have addressed what we need to do in times of epidemic.
Based on best practices we need to observe the following;
Washing of our hands frequently with soap and water . apply sanitizer (special disinfectant) where available.
“Anyone who is coughing or sneezing should protect others by covering their mouth and nostrils to prevent spread of infection.
Always seek medical attention in any of the health center closest to you.
The Government through the ministry of health has positioned its personnel to pay special attention to any individual who present with features suggestive of Corona Virus disease. Your cooperation as a people (the people of Katsina) is Paramount in making it possible for the government to help you. I here by reiterate the need for your cooperation in ensuing that you present yourself to the nearest health facility whenever you feel unwell and abide by instructions by health personnel and other medium to ensure your safety.
“For travellers returning back home from abroad especially from countries where confirmed cases of Covid-19 had been made, should be on self-quarantine for 14 days. Such individuals should report immediately to the nearest health facility once feeling unwell.
The Government is making available funding to the ministry of health to ensure our hospitals are better positioned with the basic requirement that shall include; Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and other supportive commodities to handle any eventuality should a confirmed case be identified. The government is building an emergency infectious disease ward in general Amadi Rimi specialist Hospital (GARSH) in addition to the temporary isolation center at the General Hospital Katsina.
“I pray for Allahs’ guidance, protection and may this affliction come to a final stop soonest”
