The Minister of Health, Dr. Osagie Ehanire, said on Tuesday, that many educated, well-to-do Nigerians died from COVID-19 because they chose home-based care and were only rushed to hospitals after complications had set in.
Ehanire, who disclosed this during the daily briefing by the Presidential Task Force on COVID-19 in Abuja, therefore cautioned against self-treatment.
He advised that anyone who tests positive for COVID-19 should seek medical attention, and not use drugs without a doctor’s prescription.
The health minister noted that five centres in the country were researching into possible COVID-19 drugs. Adding that chloroquine was one of such drugs.
“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.
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“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.”
Ehanire said the ministry of health and the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control were assessing isolation centres across the country.
“We have recently been in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State, and Osogbo, Osun State. We will continue providing diagnostic commodities and facilities in collaboration with partners,” he added.
He said further: “On chloroquine, first, we do not at any time or in any way support self-medication. If you hear that anyone is taking medication of any type, it has to be something prescribed by his doctor. There are medicines that should not be in your hands unless they are prescribed by your doctor.
“There are medicines over-the-counter that you can buy. But there are prescription medicines, which you should not have unless your doctor prescribes them.”
