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The Enugu State Government has urged residents to desist from self-medication and report anyone sick to health facilities as a major step in Ebola Virus Disease (EVD) prevention.
The Commissioner for Health, Prof. George Ugwu, advised in a statement issued in Enugu.
This follows the inauguration and activation of the Enugu State Public Health Emergency Operations Centre (EOC) as proactive measures to prevent the importation and spread of Ebola outbreak, which is reported in Uganda.
Ugwu emphasised 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, 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 Akanu Ibiam International Airport, where health officials are working with stakeholders to monitor travelers and promptly identify any potential health risks.
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 State Coordinator in WHO, Dr Adaeze Ugwu, commended the state government’s timely intervention and readiness posture.
Ugwu expressed confidence that the coordinated efforts of the EOC, surveillance teams, healthcare facilities, and the public would ensure that Enugu State remained prepared to detect, prevent, and respond effectively to any potential Ebola threat.
The activation of the Emergency Operations Centre in advisory mode marks another significant step in Enugu State’s proactive public health response framework for Ebola alert.
