Nigeria Boosts Ebola Readiness and Tightens Border Checks

The federal government is stepping up measures to prepare for the Ebola Virus Disease (EVD). This comes after concerns about the Bundibugyo strain reported in East and Central Africa.

On Wednesday in Abuja, Ado Bako, the Assistant Director of Press and Public Relations at the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, shared details about these measures. He said they aim to improve Nigeria's health security and stop the spread of diseases across borders.

Mr Bako emphasized that there are no confirmed cases of Ebola in Nigeria.

"However, in line with the federal government’s commitment to strengthening national health security and preventing cross-border disease transmission, heightened preparedness measures have been activated nationwide," he stated.

To support public awareness and compliance, the ministry has uploaded official preparedness protocols and technical guidance documents on its website. This is part of the ongoing readiness efforts.

Strict border controls and Point of Entry protocols are now in place nationwide. These will help with surveillance and early detection of suspected cases.

Mr Bako mentioned that these measures include universal temperature screenings using infrared thermal scanners and handheld thermometers. There are also mandatory health declaration forms and travel history checks for passengers arriving in Nigeria.

Enhanced traveller risk assessments, secondary screenings, and mechanisms for isolating and referring symptomatic individuals have been activated. Coordination with border management agencies has also been strengthened.

Surveillance activities have been improved through the Integrated Disease Surveillance and Response system. Community-based and event-based monitoring mechanisms are also being reinforced across the country.

Public health authorities are actively checking alerts and rumours. They are conducting ongoing national risk assessments and epidemiological surveillance.

Mr Bako also noted that laboratory readiness and systems for collecting and transporting specimens related to viral hemorrhagic diseases have been strengthened. This will ensure quick diagnosis and response when necessary.

He added that Public Health Emergency Operation Centres are on alert. Rapid Response Teams at both national and local levels are ready for any situation that may arise.

Infection control measures in health facilities have been reinforced. There are ongoing training and sensitization programs for healthcare workers and frontline personnel.

Healthcare facilities have been advised to stay alert for viral hemorrhagic fevers. They need to strengthen triage systems and isolate suspected cases immediately.

Mr Bako said health institutions must follow reporting protocols. This will help ensure a fast response and containment if a suspected case arises.

He urged Nigerians to stay calm and avoid spreading misinformation. He encouraged people to rely on official information from recognized public health authorities.

He also advised the public to maintain good hand hygiene and avoid direct contact with bodily fluids from sick people. It's important to report any unusual illnesses or deaths.

He warned against contact with dead animals or bushmeat from unknown sources, calling these potential health risks that need caution.

Mr Bako confirmed that the ministry will keep monitoring the situation closely and provide timely updates. All Ebola preparedness advisories and guidance are available on the ministry’s website: www.health.gov.ng.

The News Agency of Nigeria reported that Nigeria has successfully contained previous Ebola outbreaks. This was achieved through quick surveillance, contact tracing, and coordinated emergency responses, earning global recognition for its efforts.