Face mask is for infected persons - NCDC DG, Iheakweazu

Dr Chikwe Ihekweazu, the Director-General of Nigeria Centre for Disease Control, NCDC, has given a reason why he doesn't wear a face mask like the other member of the Presidential Task Force (PTF) on COVID-19.

According to Ihekweazu, face mask is for that are infected or medical personnel at the frontline in the battle against the deadly virus.

He also revealed that Nigeria is yet to have a policy on the wearing of face mask.

He said, “This is a strategy we need to think about before we implement it. Before we implement a national strategy around mask-wearing, we have to be sure we can provide it or at least enable access to it. We will allow for the risk assessment and as the evidence comes together, we will make a decision based on the evidence and ability to provide every Nigerian with access to mask."

The DG added that the draft for the face mask wearing policy which is almost done is still being looked at by the NCDC.

“Last week, I did say we would release a policy on face masks. That policy has almost been completed. In fact, the draft is now being looked at by various colleagues to make sure that we are all alive. By tomorrow or next, we would be releasing that policy for all of us to align with.”