The Nigeria Centre For Disease Control says in spite of the announcements of vaccines’ discoveries to tackle the novel coronavirus pandemic, the mass production of the vaccines is still far.

The centre said that for the reason, Nigerians must continue to observe non-pharmaceutical measures against COVID-19.

The Director-General of NCDC, Dr Chikwe Ihekweazu, said at a media briefing of the Presidential Task Force on COVID-19 on Monday in Abuja that Christmas carols and other gatherings which could spread the virus should be avoided this Christmas season.

Ihekweazu said, “As the year rounds off, we can take necessary actions now to make 2021 a hopeful and successful year and bring about a move back to the way of life that we miss so much.

“Before we get there, we have an intervening period, the month of December with the associated festivities that mark the end of the year.

“Many of the traditional meetings that we engage in at this time of the year, whether it is Christmas carols or festivals, trips or family gatherings, can end up being super spreader events.

“We must take this into consideration as we make our choices.”

He said that although there had been some encouraging news about COVID-19 vaccines, mass production of the vaccines might still take time.

“We are even very far from having one with a licence; so, we have to tighten our belts and get through this month of December.

“Everyone should be vigilant, disciplined and abide by the general protocols that we have advised throughout the year.

“This is the best way that we can keep our loved ones safe and transit safely into 2021.

“This is particularly important for the elderly in our country who we may want to go and visit as we do by this time of the year,” he said.