Ebola Outbreak: FG Launches Preventive Actions

The Nigerian government has launched a series of preventive activities aimed at eliminating the likelihood of the spread of the disease to the country, following the confirmation of an outbreak of the Ebola Virus Disease in the Central African country of Democratic Republic of the Congo by the World Health Organisation.

Minister of Health, Professor Isaac Adewole, disclosed this in a statement yesterday by the ministry’s director of media and public relations, Mrs. Boade Akinola. Adewole directed port health officials to step up surveillance processes at all entry points to the country and report any person suspected of having the disease to the relevant state epidemiologists for prompt tests.

He said, “The symptoms to look out for include fever, fatigue, weakness dizziness and muscle aches. Patients with more severe cases show bleeding under the skin, internal organs or even from bodily orifices like mouth, ears, and the ears.

“Nigerians are urged not to panic as the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control is on ground and equipped to secure the health of citizens. The agency has for a while now been strengthening states capacities to detect, manage and respond to haemorrhagic fevers, including Lassa fever.”

Director-general of the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control, Dr. Chikwe Ihekweazu, also confirmed the existence of measures to forestall the spread of the disease. Ihekweazu stated, “We are aware and in communication with colleagues via formal channels.

“We will make a statement on preparedness levels on Monday.”