The Imo Commissioner for Health, Dr Prosper Ohayagha says the state has recorded eight new COVID-19 cases.

The commissioner disclosed this at a news briefing on Thursday in Owerri.

Ohayagha said the patients were currently in isolation and being treated, while a surveillance team had embarked on contact tracing to reduce the spread.

He expressed regret that many people had let their guards down, by failing to observe the prescribed protocols for the pandemic and urged residents to do better.

He urther advised residents to get vaccinated and apply every preventive measure as they partook in the Christmas festivities to avoid new infections.

“We reiterate that people should take the COVID-19 vaccine and as much as possible, avoid going out except when it is absolutely necessary.

“The vaccine is absolutely safe and will help boost the immune system so the body can easily fight the virus in case of exposure.

“Those who are unvaccinated, find it harder to fight the virus but the vaccine gives the body a chance to develop antibodies against the disease and promote quicker recovery.

“Wash your hands regularly and maintain social distancing as the pandemic is far from over,” he said.

The commissioner also disclosed that the state government had provided Immune fortification therapy for the elderly in all the local government areas of the state.

He also added that the officers in charge of health centres had been directed to dispense only to the elderly, who remained more vulnerable to the virus.

NAN