Nigeria: Enugu gov’t intensifies surveillance to prevent Ebola spread
By Zuleihat Owuiye, Nigeria
The Enugu State Government has commenced intensive disease surveillance across its 17 local government areas and at the Akanu Ibiam International Airport, Enugu, as part of measures to prevent the spread of Ebola Virus Disease in the state.
The Commissioner for Health, Professor George Ugwu, disclosed this during a press conference in Enugu on Wednesday.
Professor Ugwu said the move followed the recently confirmed case of Ebola in Abuja and the ongoing outbreak of the disease in parts of Africa.
He clarified that there is currently no confirmed case of Ebola in Enugu State.
According to him, the state government has remained vigilant and prepared due to Enugu’s strategic position as a major travel and commercial hub connecting the South-east with other parts of Nigeria and the international community through the airport.
Ugwu said the Ministry of Health is carrying out preparedness activities in collaboration with federal agencies, including the Federal Ministry of Health, the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC), and airport authorities.
“Specifically, the State has intensified disease surveillance across the 17 local government areas of Enugu State and strengthened coordination with relevant agencies and partners. Surveillance activities around the Akanu Ibiam International Airport are also being strengthened in collaboration with Port Health Services and other relevant stakeholders,” he said.
He added that the government has kept its Rapid Response Teams and technical personnel on standby, while response measures are being reviewed to ensure prompt action should any case be confirmed.
He also noted that public awareness and risk communication are being strengthened to ensure residents receive accurate and timely information.
The commissioner urged all public and private health facilities in the state to remain on heightened alert and maintain a high index of suspicion for suspected cases, particularly among persons with relevant travel or exposure history.
“I urge all health facilities to cooperate fully with the Enugu State Ministry of Health and other response agencies, as early detection and prompt notification are critical to preventing transmission,” he said.
He called on healthcare workers to recognize their role as the first line of defence and to strictly observe infection prevention and control measures.
“The public is advised to maintain good hand hygiene, avoid contact with the body fluids of sick persons, seek medical attention promptly when necessary, and report suspected cases to the appropriate health authorities,” Ugwu added.
