The Edo State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Patrick Okundia, has disclosed that a total of 201 health workers have tested positive for coronavirus since the outbreak of the pandemic in the state.
Okundia, who disclosed this on Monday in Benin to journalists, reaffirmed the state government’s commitment towards the protection and welfare of the state’s health workforce, especially frontline workers who put their lives on the line while saving others.
He commended the resilience, sacrifice and commitment of health workers in the State, noting that they have shown uncommon resolve in curtailing the spread of the virus and protecting other citizens during the outbreak.
According to him, Governor Godwin Obaseki-led administration will not relent in ensuring the welfare of the state’s health workforce is adequately catered for.
The commissioner stressed the need to protect the elderly and persons with underlying ailments who are vulnerable and most affected by the disease in the state.
While noting that persons who are aged 60 and above make up only five percent of the state’s population, he added that over 50 percent of the deaths recorded so far fall within the age category of the population.
Okundia also disclosed that the state has discharged 87 more COVID-19 patients who have now tested negative to the virus following their treatment at the state isolation facilities.
He however urged residents to support the government’s efforts at containing the pandemic by complying with government guidelines and safety measures.
