By Ikhili Ebalu, Benin City

The Management of the  University of Benin Teaching Hospital (UBTH) has confirmed that it has so far receiveyyd 
 three patients who have been confirmed positive with COVID-19. 

Chief Medical Director of the hospital, Dr  Darlington Obaseki, stated this Sunday  in a release to journalists in Benin City.

According to Obaseki, this  became necessary to enlighten the public about the true position of COVID 19 in the hospital.

There have been conflicting reports about the real number of COVID 19 patients in the hospital and the number of staff that have had contact with them unknowingly.

He said, " The two surviving patients are currently being cared for by our dedicated staff in an isolation ward with restricted access. 

  " Prior to confirmation of their COVID-19 status, some of our healthcare staff were exposed to these patients *whilst* using only Personal Protection (surgical face-masks and gloves).

 Obaseki confirmed that, "  all staff who were exposed to these patients are asymptomatic and they are being monitored closely according to current guidelines. "

According to him, " measures have been put in place to ensure that our staff are not unduly exposed to risks of infection with COVID-19 in the course of their providing care for patients who come to the hospital for various reasons.

He noted that,  "Healthcare workers are on the front lines in this pandemic and therefore at a higher risk of being exposed than the general public. 

Adding that, " the management and staff of UBTH while ensuring standard precautions at all times to prevent the spread of this disease, crave the support and understanding of the general public as we fight this raging battle to contain and curb COVID-19. He concluded.