Guidelines

Soical distancing is a strategy to reduce physical contact between people with the aim of slowing down and reducing the spread of COVID-19 in a community.

What measures are in place for effective social distancing?

The Federal Government has issued a compulsory stay at home directive for non-essential public servants on Grade12 and below. The Nigerian Center for Disease and Control (NCDC) has intensified risk communication with various target audiences such as religious leaders to ensure information on social distancing and other preventive measures is widely disseminated. The NCDC has also launched a communications campaign themed #TakeResponsibility. This is a call to all Nigerians and residents in the country, to join forces and to be proactive in taking greater individual and collective responsibility in preventing and controlling the spread of COVID-19 in Nigeria Nationwide closure of schools has been ordered and some state governors have ordered the closure of markets and those selling non-essential life-saving items, with the exception of those selling food, water and medication.

How to effectively observe social distancing

• Use of non-physical greetings
• . Maintain at least 2 metres (6 feet) physical distance between yourself and anyone who is coughing orsneezing
• . Stay home if you feel unwell with symptoms like fever, NCDC’s 24/7 toll-free number 0800 970 000 0010. Do not self-medicate
• Persons with a persistent cough or sneezing, should also stay at home until they recover
• Obey national and state directives requesting the cancellation and avoidance of large gatherings, including places of worship, social and sporting events
• Avoid crowded spaces such as open markets, crowded supermarkets and pharmacies
• Wash your hands regularly with soap and water or use an alcohol-based sanitiser if no water and soap is available