Expert advises on proper usage of stadiums for COVID-19 victims

A sports medicine expert, Dr. Adebukola Bajuwoye has advised personnel at the stadiums currently being used as isolation centres for COVID-19 victims to ensure that the structures are thoroughly fumigated and everybody adhere to basic health procedures before and after use to avoid further spread of the virus.

Bajuwoye, who is the team doctor of the national rugby team (Black Stallions), noted that the stadiums, which have become handy in Nigeria and other parts of the world in the battle against COVID-19, would make for effective monitoring of suspected victims.

He opined that Covid-19, which has crippled sporting activities across the world, required concerted efforts to be totally eradicated.

“Using stadiums as isolation centres to treat or quarantine Covid-19 patients is not bad. All we are praying for is for the cure of the virus to be discovered as soon as possible. But to curtail any further eventuality in future, the designated stadiums need to be properly fumigated to remove any trace of the virus in the environment.

“The stadiums are public places where large number of people turn out for events. The facilities should be adequately managed and supervised to flush out traces of virus in the environment after it has served its ad-hoc purpose.

“Citizens and sports stars should also ensure that they observe all the hygiene procedures to prevent COVID-19 from coming in contact with them,” he said.

Bajuwoye’s advise came in just as Sports Minister, Sunday Dare, joined other concerned citizens of Oyo State, family and friends of the state’s Governor, Mr. Seyi Makinde, to wish him a quick recovery after he confirmed testing positive to COVID-19.

The minister commended Governor Makinde for reinforcing the key messaging for slowing down the spread of the virus by deciding to self-isolate, though he is currently asymptomatic.

Dare said: “Your Excellency, I am sorry to learn about your test result on the coronavirus. I join all concerned citizens of Oyo State, your family and friends to wish you a quick recovery from the effect of the virus.  

“I pray that God will heal you and see you through the period of isolation. Thank you for the courage to be open about it. I believe you will soon bounce back fully, ready to continue to govern Oyo State.“I am certain that you will overcome this condition soon having promised to go into self-isolation as required.”