The federal government is stepping up efforts to prepare for Ebola after new worries about the Bundibugyo strain of the virus in East and Central Africa.
Ado Bako, the Assistant Director of Press and Public Relations at the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, made the announcement in Abuja on Wednesday. He said the goal is to strengthen Nigeria’s health security and stop diseases from crossing borders.
Mr Bako emphasized that there are no confirmed cases of Ebola Virus Disease 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.
As part of the response efforts, official protocols, advisories, and guidance documents are now available on the Ministry’s website. This helps raise public awareness and ensures that everyone follows the rules.
Strict border control measures are already in place across Nigeria. These are meant to improve surveillance and catch any suspected cases early.
He explained that the measures include universal temperature checks using infrared thermal scanners and handheld thermometers. Arriving travelers must fill out health declaration forms and provide their travel history.
Mr Bako noted that there are also enhanced risk assessments for travelers, secondary screening, and isolation of anyone showing symptoms. Coordination with border management agencies has been improved as well.
Surveillance has been stepped up through the Integrated Disease Surveillance and Response system. Community monitoring has also been strengthened nationwide.
Public health authorities are actively checking and investigating alerts and rumors. They are also carrying out ongoing national risk assessments and epidemiological surveillance.
Mr Bako added that the readiness of laboratories for specimen collection and transport for viral hemorrhagic diseases has been improved. This ensures that diagnoses and responses are prompt.
He mentioned that Public Health Emergency Operation Centres are on alert. Rapid Response Teams at both national and state levels are ready to act if needed.
Infection prevention and control measures are being reinforced in health facilities. There are ongoing training and awareness programs for healthcare workers and frontline staff.
Healthcare facilities across Nigeria have been told to stay alert for symptoms of viral hemorrhagic fevers. They are also advised to strengthen systems for triaging patients and isolating suspected cases quickly.
Mr Bako said that health institutions must follow strict reporting protocols. This helps ensure a fast response and containment if any suspected case comes up.
He urged Nigerians to stay calm, ignore false information and rumors, and rely on updates from recognized health authorities.
He advised the public to maintain good hand hygiene, avoid contact with the bodily fluids of sick people, and report any strange illnesses or deaths immediately.
Mr Bako also warned against handling dead animals or bushmeat from unknown sources. Such actions can pose public health risks and require caution.
He concluded by saying the ministry will keep monitoring the situation closely and provide timely updates. All Ebola preparedness advisories and guidance can be found on the ministry’s website: www.health.gov.ng.
The News Agency of Nigeria reports that Nigeria has successfully dealt with previous Ebola outbreaks through quick surveillance, contact tracing, and coordinated emergency responses, earning global recognition for its efforts.
Drop your comment
No comments yet — be the first to drop the gist 👇