Why Nigeria Is Recording Increase In Covid-19 Infection—WHO

The World Health Organisation has warned that the recent upward trend in the cases of coronavirus infection recorded in Nigeria is due the weak observance of preventive measures.

It also blamed the high rate of movement among the people to various part of the country for the increase in Covid-19 infection.

Walter Kazadi Mulombo, WHO Country Representative, made this disclosure in a statement made available to journalists in Abuja.

The weekly report of Covid-19 cases as contained in the NCDC website shows that from 16th to 22nd August, the number of new confirmed cases was 4,520, reported in 25 states and the Federal Capital Territory.

This is an increase from 4,417 reported in the previous week being 9th to 15th August, and 3,771 recorded from 1st to 8th of August.

Mulombo said, “The question of whether the virus will become endemic in the long run, with ongoing transmission, will depend upon a multitude of factors. Chief among them is the level of immunity in a community, both through vaccination and previous infection.

“The evolution of the virus and the emergence of new variants will also play a role in the long term. This makes it important to reduce transmission so that the virus has fewer chances to mutate.”

He said WHO is calling for a moratorium on boosters until the end of September, to enable at least 10 percent of the population of every country to be vaccinated.

He further stated that vaccine injustice is a shame on all humanity.

“If we don’t tackle it together, we will prolong the acute stage of this pandemic for years when it could be over in a matter of months.

“Getting vaccinated, maintaining physical distancing, cleaning hands, avoiding crowded and closed spaces, and wearing a mask prevent the spread of disease.

“Populations where more people were previously infected and where vaccination coverage is high are expected to be less impacted by the virus in the future than other populations.

“Overall, however, current evidence shows that protection levels around the world remain low and most people continue to be susceptible to the virus.

“While it is important to look at future scenarios, we must continue to do everything we can to protect people now.

“This is why WHO continues to recommend a strong public health response, and for individuals to continue to protect themselves by getting vaccinated,” he said.