The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) has said it has detected a confirmed case of the Delta variant of COVID-19, also known as lineage B.1.617.2.
In a statement, the NCDC said the variant was detected in a traveler to Nigeria, following the routine travel test required of all international travellers and genomic sequencing at the NCDC National Reference Laboratory, Abuja.
It urged Nigerians to step up the COVID-19 safety protocols. It also urged state governments to ensure sample collection and testing for the virus is accessible to all.
“Given the high transmissibility of the Delta variant and following its detection in Nigeria, NCDC urges all Nigerians to ensure strict adherence to public health and social measures in place.
“Proven public health and social measures such as physical distancing, frequent handwashing, and proper use of face masks, prevent infections and save lives. The COVID-19 vaccine is safe and effective and offers protection against the disease.
“Additionally, states are urged to ensure sample collection and testing for COVID-19 is accessible to the public. Public settings such as schools with accommodation facilities, workplaces and camps should utilise the approved Antigen-based Rapid Diagnostic Test (RDT) for rapid testing of their population”.
