TheCable

Amina Mohammed-Baloni, Kaduna state commissioner for health, has tested positive for COVID-19.

She disclosed this on her Twitter handle on Friday, adding that she has gone into isolation.

“Following notification that I have tested positive for COVID-19, I have proceeded into isolation for the necessary treatment,” she said.

“I look forward to quick and complete recovery from this infection.

“I appeal to everyone to observe the simple public health measures and COVID-19 prevention protocols such as the use of facemasks in public; frequent washing of hands with soap and running water or use of sanitisers; and avoiding large gatherings or crowded places.”

Following notification that I have tested positive for #COVID19, I have proceeded into isolation for the necessary treatment.

I look forward to quick & complete recovery from this infection. @GovKaduna @DepGovKaduna @KadunaMOH @KadunaSPHCB @kadchma @KADHSMA pic.twitter.com/Jq4ArITKjG

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— Amina Mohammad Baloni (@AMBaloni) January 8, 2021

The development comes weeks after the health commissioner expressed concern about the significant spike in cases in the state amid a second wave of infections.

Speaking at a media briefing on December 12, 2020, Mohammed-Baloni said the state may consider another lockdown, and urged residents to ensure strict adherence to the guidelines.

“The ministry of health expected some increase in infections after the reopening of schools, markets, places of worship and recreational centres. But the figures easily outstrip our estimates. While infections cut across age groups, this new wave especially affects those aged between 10 and 35,” she said.

“There is now a veritable danger to lives and livelihoods with the renewed COVID-19 infections. If the spread continues at the current rate, it may challenge and overwhelm the health system despite our efforts to improve the resilience of that sector.

“We cannot allow this to happen. Kaduna state contained the first wave because, among other measures, most citizens observed and practised the COVID-19 prevention protocols. The ministry of health wishes to appeal to all our people to recommit to behaviour that protects themselves and their families from infection. Voluntary compliance with the protocols can help us avoid the worst-case scenarios and limit the spread of the disease.”

According to the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC), Kaduna has confirmed 5,717 cases — the third highest figure in the country.

The state has also recorded 54 deaths, while 5,226 persons have recovered from the virus.