The Adamawa Government has intensified preparedness measures against the potential threat of Ebola Virus Disease (EVD).
A statement issued by the Information Officer of the Adamawa Ministry of Health and Human Services, Abubakar Mohammed, in Yola on Thursday, said the government had activated the Emergency Operations Centre, Infectious Disease Centre and Rapid Response Team in the state.
Mohammed said other measures included heightened surveillance and awareness campaigns across the 21 Local Government Areas.
He said disease surveillance officers and notification focal persons had been directed to intensify monitoring and promptly report suspected cases.
He added that healthcare workers had been tasked with maintaining a high index of suspicion for patients presenting with fever, especially those with a travel history or contact with suspected cases.
He said the Infectious Disease Centre had been activated to assess, isolate and manage suspected cases, with priority given to infection prevention and control.
According to him, the Emergency Operations Centre would coordinate preparedness activities, strengthen inter-agency collaboration and ensure a timely response.
On sensitisation, he said the government would deploy the media, social media and community structures to educate residents on the symptoms and prevention of the disease.
He listed the symptoms as sudden fever, severe headache, weakness, muscle pain, sore throat, loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea and abdominal pain, noting that unexplained bleeding could also occur.
He said symptoms usually appeared between two and 21 days after exposure, often within eight to 10 days.
He clarified that fever alone did not indicate Ebola but advised people who developed compatible symptoms after possible exposure to seek medical assessment.
“Residents should avoid contact with the blood and body fluids of suspected cases, practise handwashing and cooperate with health workers,” he warned.
Mohammed cautioned against rumour-mongering and urged residents to rely on the ministry and recognised health authorities for information.
He called on traditional and religious leaders, market associations, transport operators, partners, civil society organisations and the media to support the awareness campaign.
“Residents should remain calm and vigilant as surveillance and response measures are strengthened,” he said.
