By Stephen Simon
The Enugu State Government has intensified disease surveillance across its 17 local government areas and at Akanu Ibiam International Airport following Nigeria’s confirmation of an imported Ebola case in Abuja.
The state Commissioner for Health, Professor George Ugwu, announced the measures on Wednesday, October 21, during a news conference in Enugu.
Ugwu said the state had no confirmed Ebola case but was strengthening its preparedness because of its position as a major travel and commercial hub connecting the South-East with other parts of Nigeria and international destinations.
He said the government was working with the Federal Ministry of Health, the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC), airport authorities and other partners to improve surveillance and coordinate its response.
Rapid response teams and technical personnel have been placed on standby, while public awareness campaigns are being strengthened to ensure residents receive accurate information.
The commissioner urged public and private health facilities to remain alert, promptly report suspected cases and strictly observe infection prevention and control procedures.
He also advised residents to maintain good hand hygiene, avoid contact with the body fluids of sick persons and seek medical attention promptly if they develop symptoms or suspect exposure.
The measures follow the Federal Government’s confirmation on October 20 of an imported case of Ebola Bundibugyo virus disease in the Federal Capital Territory.
The World Health Organisation is supporting Nigerian authorities with case investigation, contact tracing and infection-control measures.
