The Enugu State government has urged residents to desist from self-medication and report anyone sick to health facility as a major step in the preventing the spread of the Ebola virus.
Key Highlights:
- Enugu State activated its Public Health Emergency Operations Centre to prepare for a possible Ebola outbreak.
- Health Commissioner George Ugwu urged residents to avoid self-medication and report sick individuals to health facilities.
- The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control identified Enugu as a high-risk state due to international travel links.
- An isolation facility has been designated, and surveillance has been strengthened at Akanu Ibiam International Airport.
- The state is expanding public awareness campaigns on Ebola prevention, symptoms, and reporting procedures.
Commissioner for Health, Prof. George Ugwu, gave the advise in a statement issued on Tuesday in Enugu.
This is following the inauguration and activation of the Enugu State Public Health Emergency Operations Centre, as a proactive measure to prevent the spread of the Ebola virus.
Prof. Ugwu emphasised that the state’s unwavering commitment to safeguarding the health and well-being of residents through heightened surveillance, preparedness, and rapid response mechanisms.
He said that the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) had classified Enugu State as a high-risk state for possible importation due to the presence of the Akanu Ibiam International Airport, a major gateway for international travelers.
The commissioner stressed that the state cannot afford complacency and must remain vigilant in the face of emerging public health threats.
As part of the preparedness strategy, Prof. Ugwu disclosed that a dedicated isolation facility had been designated to manage any suspected Ebola case that might arise.
He emphasised that surveillance activities needed to be intensified in all points-of-entry, especially at the Akanu Ibiam International Airport, where health officials are working with stakeholders to monitor travelers and promptly identify any potential health risks.
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The commissioner also noted that the scaling up of risk communication and public awareness campaigns across the state.
According to him, the Ministry of Health will engage communities, healthcare workers, traditional rulers, religious leaders, and the media to disseminate accurate information on Ebola prevention, symptoms, and reporting procedures.
He urged residents to maintain good hygiene practices and promptly report any suspected symptoms to health authorities.
The WHO state Coordinator, Dr Adaeze Ugwu, commended the state government’s timely intervention and readiness posture.
Ugwu expressed confidence that the coordinated efforts of the emergency centre, surveillance teams, healthcare facilities, and the public would ensure that Enugu State remains prepared to detect, prevent, and respond effectively to any potential Ebola threat.
