The Federal Government has described as worrisome the deaths of many educated, well-to-do Nigerians due to Coronavirus [COVID-19] complications.
The Minister of Health, Dr Osagie Ehanire, on Tuesday, suggested that the deceased chose home care and were only rushed to hospitals after sudden complications.
Speaking the Presidential Task Force on COVID-19’s briefing in Abuja, Ehanire advised everyone who tested positive for COVID-19 to seek medical attention, and not use drugs without a doctor’s prescription.
Ehanire said five centres in the country were researching into possible COVID-19 drugs.
He said chloroquine was one of such drugs.
The health minister said,
“As we learn more about coronavirus every day, we must be ready to adjust our strategy, based on knowledge and evidence. As of Monday, we had sadly recorded 191 deaths in 26 states and the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja.
“Even though this figure seems low compared to other countries, a disturbing picture emerging from the statistics is that not only are most fatalities linked with pre-existing diseases, many are educated, well-to-do people, who chose home-based care, where they develop sudden complications and have to be rushed to hospital.
“Experience is showing that complications in COVID-19 patients can arise with little or no notice. This is an added reason why all persons should seek medical attention when they test positive.”
