The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) has ramped up its preparedness in response to the recent Ebola Virus Disease (EVD) outbreak in Uganda.
The Director-General, NCDC, Dr. Jide Idris, confirmed that the agency has updated its emergency contingency plan and enhanced screening at entry points, especially international airports.
In a public address on Sunday, Dr. Idris stressed the importance of early detection and containment, given the severity of the Ebola Sudan strain, which currently has no approved vaccine. “We are optimising diagnostic capacity for EVD testing in designated laboratories and mobilising Lassa fever testing labs for Ebola testing if needed,” he said.
While there is no immediate cause for panic, Dr. Idris urged Nigerians to remain vigilant, emphasising the need for preventive measures, including regular hand washing, avoiding contact with symptomatic individuals, and refraining from consuming bushmeat.
He also advised travelers returning from affected countries to seek medical attention immediately if they exhibit symptoms like fever or vomiting. “Seek immediate medical attention if experiencing symptoms after traveling to an affected country,” Idris added.
Ebola spreads through direct contact with bodily fluids from infected animals or humans.
