Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, Director-General of World Health Organization (WHO) has warned that premature lifting of movement restrictions may lead to the resurgence of COVID-19 in some countries.
This is coming after some states in Nigeria relaxed the lockdown to allow Christian faithfuls congregate in their respective churches.
However, WHO DG has said this is a completely bad idea.
Tedros made this known while speaking at the COVID-19 Press briefing on Friday, April 10.
He said:
“We’ve seen an alarming acceleration in other countries. I want to take a moment to highlight Africa, where we are seeing the spread of the #Coronavirus to rural areas. We are now seeing clusters of cases and community spread in more than 16 countries. We anticipate severe hardship for already overstretched health systems, particularly in rural areas, which normally lack the resources of those in cities.
“I know that some countries are already planning the transition out of #StayHome restrictions. WHO wants to see restrictions lifted as much as anyone. At the same time, lifting restrictions too quickly could lead to a deadly resurgence. The way down can be as dangerous as the way up if not managed properly.
“WHO is working with affected countries on strategies for gradually & safely easing restrictions. Imp. factors to consider are that:
1. transmission is controlled
2. sufficient public health & medical services are available
3. outbreak risks in spec settings are minimized.
4. preventive measures are in place in workplaces, schools & other essential places
5. importation risks can be managed
5. communities are fully aware and engaged in the transition” he said
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