The Enugu State Government has urged residents to avoid self-medication and to report anyone showing signs of illness to health facilities promptly, as part of measures to prevent Ebola Virus Disease (EVD).
Commissioner for Health, Prof. George Ugwu, made the appeal in a statement on Tuesday in Enugu, following the activation of the Enugu State Public Health Emergency Operations Centre (EOC).
The activation is part of proactive efforts by the state to prevent the importation and spread of Ebola, following an outbreak reported in Uganda.
Ugwu reaffirmed the government’s commitment to safeguarding residents’ health through strengthened surveillance, preparedness, and rapid response mechanisms against potential health threats.
He noted that the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) has classified Enugu as a high-risk state for possible Ebola importation due to the presence of the Akanu Ibiam International Airport.
According to Ugwu, the state cannot afford complacency and must remain vigilant for early detection and effective response to any suspected Ebola case.
“As part of our preparedness, a dedicated isolation facility has been designated to manage any suspected Ebola cases identified in the state,” he said.
Surveillance activities have been intensified at all points of entry, especially at the airport, where health officials are working with stakeholders to monitor travelers.
Ugwu explained that this monitoring aims to quickly identify health risks and prevent infectious disease spread within the state.
He added that the government has scaled up risk communication and public awareness campaigns to educate residents about Ebola prevention and reporting procedures.
The Ministry of Health will engage communities, healthcare workers, traditional rulers, religious leaders, and the media to disseminate accurate information on Ebola symptoms and reporting.
Residents are urged to practice good hygiene and report any suspected symptoms immediately for prompt assessment and treatment.
WHO State Coordinator, Dr. Adaeze Ugwu, commended the government for its timely intervention and strong preparedness measures against Ebola threats.
She expressed confidence that the combined efforts of the Emergency Operations Centre, surveillance teams, healthcare facilities, and residents would enhance the state’s readiness and response capacity.
Ugwu stated that activating the Emergency Operations Centre in advisory mode marks a significant step in Enugu’s proactive public health emergency management framework.
