FAQ on Covid19
What is COVID-19?
Coronaviruses are zoonotic, meaning they are normally transmitted between animals and people. The coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is caused by a new strain of coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2) that has not been previously identified in humans. It was first reported to WHO on the 31st of December, 2019 in Wuhan, China.
What is the source of COVID-19?
Scientists and public health officials are working hard to identify the source of the SARS-CoV-2 which is the virus that causes COVID-19. The initial transmission appeared to be from an animal source, but there has been person-to-person transmission in countries.
Is COVID-19 airborne?
When a person with coronavirus coughs or exhales, droplets land on objects and surfaces around the person. Other people then catch the virus by touching these objects or surfaces, then touching their eyes, nose or mouth.People can also catch coronavirus if they breathe in these droplets. This is why it is important to stay at least 2 metres away from a person who is coughing or sneezing.
What does self-isolation mean?
Self-isolation is an important way of controlling the spread of COVID-19. It means that anyone who is returning to Nigeria must stay at home and in strict isolation from their families for 14 days. This is to limit contact with people, protect yourself and loved ones. The NCDC guidelines on this can be found HEREWhat does social distancing mean?This is an effective strategy to reduce physical interaction between people towards delaying and reducing the wide spread of COVID-19 in a community.This measure involves strict adherence to;· Non-contact greetings (avoiding shaking of hands and hugs)· Maintaining at least 2 metres (5 feet) physical distance between yourself and individuals· Closure of activities that will cause any form of gathering including schools, houses of worship, and social eventsHow are social distancing and self-isolation measures being implemented and monitored?The Federal and States Governments, at all levels, are deploying various strategies to ensure compliance with these directives.How do I report a person who has refused to self-isolate?It is expected that every Nigerian resident takes responsibility for controlling the spread of COVID-19. State Governments are also adopting various mechanisms to ensure compliance with instituted measures by the Federal Government including self-isolation. If you know anyone who is not complying with these measures, call your state hotline to enable further investigation.