The death toll in the dreaded Coronavirus in China has reached 304 as a 44 years old Philipino became the first person outside China to die of the disease.
14,000 are said to be infected in China, even as the World Health Organisation (WHO) continues to monitor the situation. The United Nations agency named Nigeria as one of the countries to be watchful.
At home, Nigeria is contending with Lassa Fever, which has claimed 33 lives already. Fresh outbreaks of the disease, transmitted mainly by rats, continue to be announced from different parts of the country.
Meanwhile, President Muhammadu Buhari extends his good wishes to President Xi Jinping and citizens of the People’s Republic of China during this trying time.
A presidency statement noted that China’s efforts to contain the spread of the disease have been exemplary, as well as the country’s collaboration with international agencies and other countries on the matter.
The Philipino from Wuhan city in central Hubei province died after developing severe pneumonia. It was the first death out of more than 130 cases reported in around two dozen other countries and regions outside of mainland China.
He was said to have arrived Philipines through Hong Kong with his companion, a Chinese woman from Wuhan, on the 21st of January.
Meanwhile, President Buhari noted that China has been exceptionally supportive of Nigeria and Africa, and even more so in recent years; therefore, it is important to let China know that Nigeria and her citizens are also standing by them during this outbreak.
“With all the efforts being put in, we know that it is only a matter of time before this nightmare passes
“President Buhari uses this opportunity to thank Nigerians for their hospitality towards the Chinese nationals in our midst, and for not letting the coronavirus outbreak create any disturbance or disrupt the peaceful coexistence between us and them.
“He prays that God will comfort the Chinese and others who have already lost family members and loved ones to the disease,” the Presidency statement added.
Nigeria stands by China as first death outside China occurs in Philipines
216