By John Dike, Osogbo
Osun State Directorate of the National Orientation Agency (NOA) has called on residents to take proactive steps to prevent the spread of COVID-19 and other infectious diseases.
The call was made by the State Director of the agency, Adebiyi Adefarasin Stephen, as part of renewed sensitisation efforts aimed at safeguarding public health across Osun State.
According to the agency, the advisory aligns with recent guidelines issued by the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention, which emphasise the need for continued vigilance despite declining public attention to COVID-19.
Adefarasin stressed that residents must not become complacent, noting that infectious diseases remain a public health concern.
“Residents must remain vigilant and adopt responsible health behaviours that protect both individual and community wellbeing,” he said.
He explained that prevention remains the most effective approach in combating infectious diseases, urging citizens to take personal responsibility for their health and that of others.
The agency outlined several key preventive measures, including regular handwashing with soap and clean water or the use of alcohol-based sanitizers, as well as maintaining proper respiratory hygiene.
Residents were also advised to avoid close contact with individuals showing symptoms such as cough, fever, or difficulty breathing, and to ensure adequate ventilation in homes, workplaces, and public spaces.
The NOA further urged individuals to seek prompt medical attention when unwell and avoid self-medication, while relying on verified information from health authorities.
Community Engagement Critical
The agency called on community leaders, religious organisations, market associations, and youth groups to support ongoing awareness campaigns and promote compliance with public health guidelines.
According to Adefarasin, collective action is essential in preventing outbreaks and maintaining a healthy society.
Commitment to Public Awareness
The NOA reaffirmed its commitment to working with stakeholders to ensure accurate and timely health information reaches all communities in the state.
Public health experts note that sustained awareness and adherence to preventive measures remain crucial in reducing the spread of infectious diseases.
They added that community participation and behavioural change are key to strengthening health resilience at the grassroots level.
