FMC Confirms Index Case in Imo, Urges Staff to Self-isolate

 

The Medical Director of the Federal Medical Centre (FMC) in Owerri, Imo State, Dr. Achigbu Kingsley, has confirmed that there was an index case of COVID-19 in the state, and urged members of staff of the hospital to self-isolate.

In his address to the staff, he confirmed that the patient is a 45-year-old man who lives and works in Owerri, and not a staff of the hospital as was widely speculated.

"He was promptly admitted into the isolation facility. He is presently not showing any symptoms and is on appropriate management based on the NCDC guidelines. The facility is equipped to handle his case. The essence of this briefing is for us to be more vigilant as well as fully abide by recommended preventive measures such as frequent hand washing with soap and water; use of alcohol-based sanitizers; maintaining appropriate social distancing; avoidance of crowd, and consistent wearing of face masks which we have provided for workers at the Centre any time you are to leave home.

"You are also advised to self-isolate and call the state task force on COVID-19 emergency lines or the FMC Owerri Infectious Diseases Control Committee advertised phone numbers if you develop fever, cough or difficulty in breathing or have been in contact with a suspected or diagnosed case of COVID-19. Do not come to the hospital at such times but self-isolate at home, wear your face mask always and make the call so that the intervention team can arrange to safely get you from home to avoid putting your family and others at risk. It is pertinent to remind us that COVID-19 is not a death sentence as majority of those affected recover with supportive management,” he stated.

The medical director who is also a member of the state taskforce on COVID-19 noted that Imo State Government in conjunction with the NCDC and the tertiary hospitals, including our centre, is presently scaling up its testing activity with the adoption of the community testing approach.

According to Kingsley, "It is expected that more cases may be identified as the programme unfolds. Our Centre will sustain the already established preventive programmes such as the wash programme, production of sanitizers, liquid soap, face masks and the weekly disinfection of all service areas. I salute all our staff and indeed all the health workers who are standing for our country at this difficult time as their labour of service will forever be remembered. Keep safe and stay well."

Also, the President of Association of Resident Doctors (ARD), FMC Owerri, Dr. Ogu Jude, while briefing his members, also confirmed that "in the earlier hours of Sunday, we were informed by credible sources that there is a confirmed case of COVID-19 infection in Imo State and we have confirmed this to be true.

"The index case, who is neither a patient nor a member of staff of the hospital, was confirmed positive following standard testing by NCDC officials in the state and has been transferred to FMC Owerri.”

Meanwhile, it was authoritatively gathered that the suspected COVID-19 case in the state works as an aide to state governor in the Government House, Owerri.

Chairman of correspondents in the state, Steve Uzoechi, has, however, advised journalists working in the government house to be careful and observe all the cautions as prescribed by World Health Organisation (WHO), NCDC, and other relevant agencies.