The Minister of Health, Dr. Osagie Ehanire, addressed concerns regarding reports of a deadly flu emerging from China, stating that neither the World Health Organization (WHO) nor other global health bodies have alerted Nigeria about such an outbreak. He made these remarks during a ministerial bi-weekly meeting in Abuja, where he provided updates on the COVID-19 response and developments within the country’s health sector. Dr. Ehanire emphasized that any significant outbreak of flu or disease would typically be announced by the WHO, which has not issued any alerts regarding the alleged strange flu.
He expressed skepticism about the circulating messages on social media, describing them as odd and strange. “By default, when there is an outbreak of any flu or disease anywhere, we will hear it first from WHO, and they have not said anything about it,” he noted. Additionally, he pointed out that the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has also remained silent on the matter, as has the Chinese government, which usually communicates such information through its embassy. This lack of official confirmation led him to question the authenticity of the reports circulating online.
Dr. Ehanire further remarked that foreign media outlets have not reported on the flu from China, suggesting that the claims are likely fabricated. He acknowledged that this time of year often sees the proliferation of sensational stories that can incite panic, while those who create such narratives may find amusement in the chaos they generate. “We are watching the situation closely; everything we hear is taken seriously. However, I want to assure you that any outbreak of this nature would first be announced by WHO, which would then provide us with advisories and information,” he stated. He urged the public to approach such reports with skepticism.
The News Agency of Nigeria has reported that there have been trending claims about a resurgence of COVID-19 in China alongside an outbreak of an unknown deadly flu, which allegedly has resulted in fatalities, including three Nigerians. Symptoms of this flu reportedly include dry throat, fever, and difficulty in breathing, although initial clinical analyses have ruled out COVID-19.
In discussing the recent outbreak of Diphtheria, which has spread to four states with 123 confirmed cases and 38 deaths, Dr. Ehanire highlighted the collective responsibility to address diseases. He reiterated that while the Federal and State Governments are tasked with managing specific outbreaks, the Federal Government, through the Ministry of Health, is committed to fulfilling its responsibilities. “Every disease outbreak is given full attention by this ministry, and we ensure that nothing within our duty is overlooked. I also expect all states to fulfill their roles in managing the social fallout,” he added. Furthermore, he assured that every individual seeking treatment at hospitals has received care, with no one turned away due to financial constraints.
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