Following the detection of a suspected case of Coronavirus in Abidjan, Ivory Coast, the Institution of ECOWAS for health, West African Health Organization (WAHO), says it was critical that all countries collaborate with each
other to take precautionary measures since cases may appear in any country due to international travel.
WAHO also tasked countries on active surveillance, early detection, isolation and case management, and contact tracing to prevent further spread of this outbreak.
The organisation noted that as as at 27 January 2020, about 3000 cases have already been been confirmed across the world, with 2744 cases and deaths 80 so far in China alone. But, the World Health Organization (WHO) assesses the risk of the outbreak to be very high in China, and moderate globally including in West Africa.
WAHO announced that it is coordinating with Member States to share real-time information on the outbreak, enhance communication between countries and strengthen countries’ surveillance capacity, including early detection of suspected cases through thermal camera surveillance at international borders.
“One such suspected case arriving Abidjan airport recently was immediately detected and isolated and tests are now being performed to confirm whether this is a case of coronavirus or not.
“WAHO has also implemented a regional laboratory network for access to rapid biological diagnostic facilities by Member States, and has a standby Regional Rapid Response Team to support countries if required”, the statement read.
As precautionary measure, WAHO strongly advised individuals to, “Frequently wash your hands with soap and water or clean them using alcohol-based sanitisers; When coughing or sneezing, cover your mouth and nose with tissue or hand, and throw away the tissue immediately and wash your hands thoroughly; Avoid close contact with anyone who has fever and cough;
“If you have fever, cough or difficulty breathing, seek medical care immediately and inform your health care provider of all your recent travel history;
In any areas with high suspicion of Coronavirus, avoid direct unprotected contact with live animals and surfaces in contact with animals when visiting markets;
“At all times, avoid eating raw or undercooked meat. Raw meat, milk or animal organs should be handled with care, to avoid cross-contamination with uncooked foods.”
Godsgift Onyedinefu, Abuja
