The Lagos State Government has released Covid-19 protocols ahead of the re-opening of worship centres in the state, instructing them to record bio-data of worshippers during each service, yesterday 4th August, 2020.
The guideline, according to them, was designed to aid contract tracing of each worshippers, days after the State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, approved reopening of worship centres from August 7, 2020 after few months closure I a bid to curb the spread of Corona virus.
Noting that 50 percent occupancy capacity would be allowed for each church and mosque in Lagos, the record would aid health experts to easily trace contacts and break the chain of community transmission whenever an infected person was discovered to have visited the religious house after contracting the virus in the state.
Mandating worshipers to use a face mask before entering the premises, the government directed that physical distancing be taken into cognizance in all religious interactions and worshipers should use hand sanitizers after leaving the premises to further avoid transmission.
While the government forbids children below 12 years from coming to religious houses, it states that worshipers above 65 years could use religious houses if the need arises and that they should be given special place during service.
The government said: “All removable rugs and carpets use in religious houses be put aside for the time being and the irremovable ones washed and disinfected regularly as well as the entire premises. Also, use of air conditioners be discontinued and all windows opened”.
The government stated that sounds from the loudspeakers should not exceed acceptable decibel and not be used for other activities except during worship services, adding, more microphones be provided for all officiating clerics and all safety measures including first aid boxes, fire extinguishers, emergency exits, and muster points be provided.
“Social gatherings such as marriages, naming ceremonies, birthdays, burials and others must not exceed 50 people including the couples and officiating ministers who must take cognizance of social distancing precaution and other related Covid-19 protocols”.
Barring other religious activities including vigils and special lectures within the worship centers, the state government directed clerics to ensure strict compliance with the conditions irrespective of their denominational practice.
-The Guild
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