By Jennifer John
Imo State committee on COVID-19 says its major task at present is the containment of the virus in the state.
Chairman of the taskforce, Prof Maurice Iwu stated this while briefing newsmen at the Government House Owerri.
Iwu said the committee has concluded the first phase of its assignment, which was to prevent the virus from entering the state and was beginning the new phase which was containing the virus now that it is in the state.
He enjoyed government agencies and the general public to join hands in the fight against COVID-19.
He posited that the state was lucky to have two testing centres, making it possible for the committee to carry out more tests than most other states.
Iwu disclosed that the committee was able to collect a total of 2,064 samples, out of which it has gotten 1,925 results; 399 positive and 1,525 negative, while 117 results were still being awaited.
He said the second phase was more dangerous because people feel they have become familiar with the virus, coupled with the erroneous belief and information about its existence and otherwise.
“We are still lucky that the fatality rate in our state is minimal and we are still hoping it will remain so, but this is the time to observe all the COVID-19 safety measures and also it is criminal not to wear a face mask. Again it is not enough to wear face visor/shield which is for the eyes. Anyone who wears face visor must also wear a face mask”.
The Chairman disclosed that members of his committee were not paid, adding that they were not awarded any contract.
He also stated that the committee does not use force in enforcing the COVID-19 protocols, pointing out that it has not been finally confirmed whether the virus was airborne or not.
