The Rivers State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Tamunoiyoriari Parker has called on the people of the state to remain calm in the face of the Ebola virus scare. While announcing that there are no reported cases of Ebola disease in the state, he stated that the government had provided all the personnel and materials needed to combat the deadly virus.
These messages are contained in a statement obtained by DaillyPost in Port Harcourt.
Dr. Parker expressed Gov. Amaechi’s confidence in the capability of the Rivers State Ebola Technical Committee.
He described statements made by former deputy speaker of the House Representatives, Mr. Austin Opara during an interview with a radio station in Port Harcourt, to the effect that Gov. Amaechi was not taking the Ebola virus seriously, as “reckless, irresponsible and unfortunate.”
“Gov. Chibuike Rotimi Amaechi has given me everything we need to fight the Ebola virus in Rivers State and has also assured me that should we need more personnel and materials the state would provide.
“However, I realize that this is political season; but we as leaders must be responsible in our utterances so as not to cause unnecessary panic in our people”, Dr. Parker said.
The Commissioner stated that he was in touch with all agencies involved in the fight against Ebola within and outside Nigeria, including the Centre for Disease Control (CDC), Atlanta and Emory University in the United States. “Discussions with these international reputable agencies and institutions have been very encouraging and our people shall soon see the benefits”, Dr. Parker stated.
He urged Rivers people to observe basic personal hygiene by washing their hands with soap and water regularly, avoid eating uncooked meat, and to handle raw meats and rodents with care.
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