The fear of the further spread of the COVID-19 pandemic has heightened following refusal by 2,430 people, who tested positive, to report at the isolation camp or present themselves for treatment.

In a series of tweets at the weekend, Lagos State Commissioner for Health Prof. Akin Abayomi said:

“Two thousand four hundred and thirty active cases in the communities are yet to turn up for admission in care centres, either due to fear of stigmatisation or preference for home care treatment.”

The commissioner added that 42,348 tests had been conducted in the state till date, of which 10,926 turned out positive.

“Of the confirmed cases 1,695 patients have since been discharged from care centres following full recovery.

“Six thousand two hundred and fifty-nine of the cases monitored in communities by #COVID19 Lagos response team have either fully recovered or positively responding to treatments.

He added:

“As at July 3, the number of COVID-19-related deaths in Lagos State had risen to 177.”

Lagos is the epicentre of the pandemic in the country.

Besides, 11 of the 20 local governments in the state are among the 18 local governments across the country carrying over 60 per cent of the cases.

Prof. Abayomi admonished Lagosian that the time to take responsibility is now.

He urged residents to observe physical distancing and regularly wash their hands.

Abayomi also advised residents to stay at home when unnecessary to go out, adding that they should wear face masks when going out to reduce the risk of infection.

The state has criminalised non-wearing of face masks from this week, according to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu.

In a statement on Sunday, he said:

“Remember, it is now a criminal offence in Lagos State to go out without using a facemask. Let’s continue to adhere strictly to all public advisories given by government #ForACOVID19FreeLagos.”

He also announced the discharge of 45 patients — 18 female and 27 male including four foreign nationals from Isolation facilities to reunite with the society.

The patients; 19 from Eti-Osa (LandMark) 11 from Onikan and 15 from LUTH Isolation Centres were discharged after full recovery and testing negative to COVID19.

“This brings to 1740, the number of #COVID19 confirmed cases that have been successfully managed and discharged from our isolation facilities,” he explained.