Kaduna considers another lockdown as COVID-19 cases rise

The Kaduna State Government says it may close down schools, markets, offices and places of worship and other public areas should the current rate of COVID-19 infection persists.

A statement by the state Commissioner of Health, Dr. Amina Mohammed-Baloni on Saturday gave the warning, following the rise in cases of coronavirus.

The commissioner said, “If the rate of spread retains or exceeds the current pace, then we will have no option than to recommend the temporary closure of public spaces, including schools, markets, offices and places of worship.

She appealed the residents to help stop the spread of the disease and save lives.

He said, “In absolute and relative terms, Kaduna State is now recording high infection figures reminiscent of the first wave of Covid-19 spread in April, May and June 2020.

“The lowering of the infection rate following the first wave encouraged the government to approve the recommendation of the state COVID-19 task force for a significant reopening of the state.

“However, we are saddened to report that the conditions that compelled the 75 day lockdown of the state are now being replicated.”

She recalled that the state on November 26 recorded 74 positive results from 531 samples.

“The quantum of infections since then suggests both high infection rates and the reality that a new wave of infections is spreading across the state,” she added.

The commissioner also said on Friday 11th December, the state recorded 117 positive cases from 518 samples, which she noted amounted to almost one in four samples testing positive.

She stated that the ministry of health expected some increase in infections after the reopening of schools, markets, places of worship and recreational centres, noting however, that the figures easily outstripped estimated projection.

The commissioner said, “While infections cut across age groups, this new wave especially affects those aged between 10 and 35. There is now a veritable danger to lives and livelihoods with the renewed COVID-19 infections.

“If the spread continues at the current rate, it may challenge and overwhelm the health system despite our efforts to improve the resilience of that sector.

“We cannot allow this to happen. Kaduna State contained the first wave because, among other measures, most citizens observed and practised the COVID-19 prevention protocols.”

She urged the people to adopt behaviour that would protect themselves and their families from the infection by voluntarily complying with the COVID-19 protocols.