Thank you for reaching out to us today. Before contacting us, kindly go through the COVID-19 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) referenced from https://covid19.ncdc.gov.ng/faq/which have been further domesticated as follows:
What is COVID-19?
Coronaviruses are zoonotic, meaning they are normally transmitted between animals and people. The coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is caused by a new strain of coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2) that has not been previously identified in humans. It was first reported to WHO on the 31st of December, 2019 in Wuhan, China.
What are the sources of COVID-19?
Scientists and public health officials are working hard to identify the source of the SARS-CoV-2 which is the virus that causes COVID-19. The initial transmission appeared to be from an animal source, but there has been person-to-person transmission in countries.
Is COVID-19 Airborne?
When a person with coronavirus coughs or exhales, droplets land on objects and surfaces around the person. Other people then catch the virus by touching these objects or surfaces, then touching their eyes, nose or mouth.
Coronavirus can be transmitted when people breathe in these droplets. Therefore, it is important to stay at least 2 metres away from a person who is coughing or sneezing.
What are the Symptoms of COVID-19?
- Cough
- Shivering /shaking (chills)
- Body pain
- Headache
- Sore throat
- Recent loss of taste or smell
- Difficulty in breathing/shortness of breath
- Diarrhoea/abdominal pain
- Runny nose/catarrh
- Fatigue (tiredness)
What does Self-Isolation mean?
This means strictly staying at home or identified accommodation, away from situations where you mix with family members or the general public, for the period of 14 days. The NCDC guidelines on this can be found HERE
What does physical distancing mean?
This is an effective strategy to reduce physical interaction between people towards limiting the spread of COVID-19. This means maintaining a distance of at least 2 metres i.e. 6 feet from others. The NCDC guidelines on this can be found HERE
This measure involves strict adherence to;
· Non-contact greetings (avoiding shaking of hands and hugs)
· Maintaining at least 2 metres (5 feet) physical distance between yourself and individuals
· Avoiding gatherings of more than 20 persons and any gathering where physical distancing is not observed
How do i get tested for COVID-19?
The criteria for testing for COVID-19 is according to the national case definition. This is anyone with cough and/or fever (or history of fever in the last two weeks) with one or more of known COVID-19 symptoms. Do not self-medicate. The community case definition can also be accessed here.
If you are showing symptoms of COVID-19, you must self-isolate and call your state helpline. The State Ministry of Health supported by NCDC will arrange for sample collection and communicate your result.
How do i avoid becoming infected with COVID-19?
To reduce the risk of infection or spread of COVID-19, members of the public are advised to adhere to the following hand and respiratory hygiene measures:
- Wash your hands regularly with soap and water or use an alcohol-based sanitiser if no water and soap is available
- Use non-medical face mask/covering for all persons while in public spaces. The NCDC has published an advisory on the use of face cloth masks
- Practice no-touch greetings
- Maintain at least 2 metres (6 feet) physical distance between yourself and anyone who is coughing or sneezing
- Avoid crowded spaces such as open markets, crowded supermarkets and pharmacies
- Adhere to national and state directives
What can businesses do to protect their staff?
The NCDC has published Guidance for Employers and Businesses in Nigeria. In line with the directives from the Federal Government of Nigeria, markets and locations of economic activities will have controlled access; the financial sector shall be fully opened with banks operating normal working hours as well as the manufacturing industry and gradual opening of the informal sector
Businesses are advised to display signages in office or business premises reminding staff and visitors to maintain good and respiratory hygiene. Encourage sick employees to stay at home if they are unwell. Ensure physical distancing and routine cleaning of high contact areas such as toilets, door handles, telephones.
How do I obtain a TIN during this period?
Please visit www.crirs.ng and click on self service sub menu under Taxes. and follow through with the onscreen instruction. if you need assistance, please download the guide: https://www.crirs.ng/tutorial-guide-self-service-portal/
How do i file my returns during this period?
Please visit www.crirs.ng and click on e-filling sub menu under Taxes. and follow through with the onscreen instruction. if you need assistance, please download the guide: https://www.crirs.ng/tutorial-guide-self-service-portal/