The Borno State coronavirus (COVID-19) first index; has infected 26
people before he died last month at University of Maiduguri Teaching
Hospital (UMTH).
The infected persons, according to Chairman of high-powered
investigative committee, Prof. Isa Husseini Marte, include 21 health
workers, four relations and a roommate at Pulka.
While submitting report to Governor Babagana Zulum at the weekend in
Maiduguri, Dr. Marte said: “The committee invited all persons relevant
to the index case for interaction; after the Pulka investigation
visit; where the victim was first receiving treatment.
“Committee members interacted with Medecine Sans Frontieres (MSF)
Spain that is managing the Pulka clinic as well as community leaders
and stakeholders.”
He said from all available evidences the committee received from its
investigation, proved beyond reasonable doubts that Babangida Mohammed
died of coronavirus (COVID-19) disease.
While speaking on how Mohammed died, Dr. Marte said: “When he first
fell sick, the deceased was taking some medication at Pulka MSF
clinic.
“When his health conditions deteriorated, they decided to take him to
UMTH, Maiduguri in a commercial bus instead of an ambulance.
“And at that time; he was having severe complications of coughing,
chest pain ,high body temperature, fever and difficulty in breathing
among others.”
He also noted that the committee at the UMTH discovered that Babangida
Mohammad has infected 21 health workers and four of his relatives with
COVID-19.
He added that one of his roommates at the hospital; was also tested positive.
Zulum, who was represented by his Deputy, Umar Kadafur, who doubles as
COVID-19 response team Chairman, commended the committee for doing a
thorough investigation.
He also assured the committee that the state government will study
carefully all its recommendations and implement to check further
spread of deadly virus.
