PTF: Records show global decline in COVID-19 cases

The Presidential Task Force (PTF) on COVID-19 says available records show that there is a global decline in cases of COVID-19.

Minister of Health, Dr Osagie Ehanire, stated this at the PTF national briefing in Abuja.

He said, “This trend in reduction compares with global observations of seeming decline in COVID -19 cases, signifying that the second wave may be receding.

“We are, however, not drawing conclusions yet and certainly not declaring victory but rather watching developments as they unfold nationally and internationally, ready to make use of comparative advantages that may emerge.

“We are intensifying the monitoring of COVID-19 positive cases, especially those that can self-isolate, by strengthening and improving the capacity of personnel, to manage home-based care.”

The minister, however, asked those on home-based care to report to their hospital or case manager, immediately they experienced symptoms or felt their symptoms were getting worse.

He said, “Experience has shown that COVID-19 disease can deteriorate suddenly and rapidly, resulting in life-threatening severity that can be managed if presented early enough. Late presentation is a leading cause of increase in mortality.

“Findings from supportive supervision of treatment centres also indicate that vulnerable and ‘at risk’ persons are among those reluctant to accept hospital admission, especially if they have no severe symptoms. It is important to follow medical advice and comply with directives.

“The bed occupancy at our isolation and treatment centres is about 36 per cent, so there is sufficient bed space to comfortably accommodate patients and we stand ready to redistribute from heavy burden to lower burden hospitals, if the need arises.”

He also said there were reports of an offer of 300 million doses of Sputnik V vaccines to the AVATT portfolio, which would boost availability to 557 million, adding that it would be a great relief to the African region and also increased the variety of vaccines to four.

“The vaccine coordination committee will advise on the best options for Nigeria, bearing salient factors in mind. Nigeria is aware of official reports of large scale fraud and counterfeit vaccines that are already in circulation,” the minister said.

He explained that the country’s vaccine needs for this year were virtually fully satisfied by multilateral and bilateral original manufacturer sources, hence the ministry did not need to procure vaccines from private importers.

He added that no vaccine would be allowed into the country unless it was certified by NAFDAC.