People who have COVID-19 but do not show the symptoms (asymptomatic), are responsible for 40 per cent transmission of the disease.
The Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Boss Mustapha, disclosed this at the Presidential Task Force (PTF) on COVID-19 media briefing in Abuja, Monday.
According to him: “A lot has been published regarding the studies carried out on asymptomatic individuals and their contacts, to how many developed COVID-19 and the finding that such transmission was very rare.
“While we note the clarification of the World Health Organisation (WHO) that the interpretation raised a number of questions on the implications of current preventive recommendations, the PTF shares the WHO’s position that comprehensive studies on transmission from asymptomatic people are difficult to conduct but are needed to draw wider conclusions.
“Some modelling have tried to estimate the proportion of asymptomatic patients that may transmit and there is a big range depending on the models used, but some estimates are that 40% of transmission may be due to asymptomatic cases.”
He, however, reiterated that the PTF shall continue to remain cautious and adhere to already recommended measures, particularly, physical distancing, wearing of masks/coverings in public places, hand hygiene and cough etiquette, until it has more evidence to propose otherwise.
The SGF however, lamented that the in the past few days, the PTF had observed what it described as “an escalation of the level of non-compliance with simple measure to keep social distancing, wearing of masks in public places, sanitation and hygiene.
“This is more prevalent in markets, motor parks and some places of worship.
“I wish to remind you that the PTF has already issued guidelines for mode of operations at places of worship and urge state Governments to ensure strict compliance with PTF guidelines.”
Mustapha reiterated that the all relaxed measures are still subject to review and advisories issued are for personal and public safety purposes.
The breach of the ban on inter-state travels, he noted, is also a point of concern.
He, therefore, appealed to state governments to embark on wider community testing, enforce rules on social distancing, step up community engagement and risk communication and pay attention to places of large gatherings.
“We also appeal to the security agencies to enforce the ban on inter-state travels very strictly.
“We have received reports that some states are contemplating the reopening of schools, television viewing centres, sports stadium and other places of where large gatherings could take place.
“The PTF re-emphasises that it is not yet safe to do so and that utmost caution should be exercised.
“The PTF guideline should still be complied with while considering decision of this nature.”
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