Nigeria disease control agency calls for use of masks to stem COVID-19 spread

The Nigeria Center for Disease Control (NCDC) on Wednesday issued a formal advisory of using face masks by the public to stem the spread of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Head of NCDC Chikwe Ihekweazu said the NCDC recognized the need for guidance on COVID-19 prevention, and remained committed to keeping Nigerians informed on verified ways to stay safe against the pandemic.

The NCDC advised that wearing of face masks or equivalents was recommended in addition to other measures such as physical distancing, hand washing and respiratory hygiene measures.

According to Ihekweazu, usage of face masks was particularly advisable when attending gatherings "where it is absolutely necessary to attend", including shopping outlets, markets and pharmacies.

The latest update of NCDC shows 30 new confirmed cases of COVID-19 were recorded in the country on Tuesday, bringing the total number of cases to 373, with 11 deaths and 99 discharged.

(XINHUA)