Akwa Ibom records 14 fresh cases of COVID-19

No fewer than 14 persons have contracted COVID-19 following resurgence of the pandemic in Akwa Ibom State.

Disclosing this in Uyo, yesterday, the Commissioner for Health, Prof. Augustine Umoh, however, allayed fears of residents and advised them to observed protocols and guidelines to tackle the pandemic.

The commissioner explained that infected persons had been quarantined in their homes while contact tracing of members of their households and other associates had begun.

“As I speak, the 14 cases we have now are in home isolation and being monitored. The process of contact tracing has recommenced for management and monitoring.

“We have about 14 active cases in the state. This something we have brought to the notice of all Akwa Ibom residents for them to be prepared.

“We are not surprised. What is important now is for us to get to the former tempo that assisted us to bring the number of patients down.”

Umoh reminded residents of the state of the need to observe COVID-19 protocols, such as regular hand washing, social distancing, use of facemasks and hand sanitisers.

The Ministry of Health, according to him, has commenced another round of public enlightenment to create awareness, as the mode of transmission of the disease has not changed.

“The disease is still transmitted through personal contact, nasal passage, air, among others,” she said, disclosing that the ministry had made adequate preparations to handle the pandemic and prepared laboratories for testing and hospitals for treatment.

She added: “The facilities are ready, medicaments are in place while contact-tracing mechanism has been reactivated. Laboratory testing has helped us to know those who are positive for isolation.

“What we are doing now is public enlightenment to make sure people come to terms with the fact that this is what is happening in Akwa Ibom State.”