COVID-19: NCDC Releases Fresh Guidelines For Nigerians, Offices

This was announced by the Director-General of NCDC on Tuesday, Dr Chikwe Ihekweazu.

The NCDC DG disclosed that the new guideline involves the mandatory use of a non-medical face mask for all persons and during the overnight curfew from 8 p.m. to 6 a.m.

He also discouraged the use of latex gloves, stressing that they should only be used in clinical settings.

"Restrictions on inter-state travel except for essential services or transportation. Physical distancing of two metres between people in workplaces and other public places; no large gatherings of more than 20 people outside the workplace," he said.

Ihekweazu said companies are expected to enforce the use of facemask/covering for all members of staff at all time.

He added that businesses are also to provide handwashing facilities/alcohol-based sanitizers and promote thorough and frequent handwashing with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.

The NCDC DG stated that businesses must develop an infectious disease preparedness action plan to reduce the risk of exposure in the workplace and communicate it to all staff members.

He said the plan must include "identifying a central person focused on coordinating COVID-19 matters.

"Ensure the contact details and emergency contact details of all staff members are kept up to date and are always easily accessible. Ensure that staff members know how to spot the symptoms of coronavirus and they have a clear understanding what to do if they feel unwell, mandating unwell employees to stay at home.

"Display signage in your office or business premises reminding staff and visitors to maintain good and respiratory hygiene. Discourage the sharing of work equipment, tools, computers, phones and desks."

According to Ihekweazu, if any employee is showing known symptoms of COVID-19, they should immediately self-isolate in a separate room in the office or business premises and call the state helpline or contact NCDC on 0800 9700 0010 for further guidance. While awaiting laboratory test results.

Ihekweazu also advised that employees who were living in a household with a confirmed case of COVID-19 should also be asked to self-isolate for 14 days until all members in the household receive a negative test confirmation.