By Anifowoshe Oladipupo
The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC), has activated emergency preparedness measures following reports of a new Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).
NCDC Director-General, Dr. Jide Idris, in a public health advisory, confirmed that no cases have been recorded in Nigeria but stressed that surveillance at borders and points of entry has been heightened for early detection.
The agency has also strengthened its risk communication and community engagement efforts to provide accurate information and curb misinformation.
In addition, infection prevention and control practices in healthcare facilities are being reinforced to safeguard patients and medical personnel.
The NCDC is working closely with the World Health Organization (WHO), and other partners to bolster the country’s level of preparedness.
The public has been urged to maintain good hygiene, such as regular handwashing, avoid contact with symptomatic individuals, and refrain from handling high-risk animals like fruit bats and monkeys or eating undercooked bushmeat.
Travelers returning from affected countries who develop symptoms are advised to call the NCDC’s toll-free line, 6232, for immediate assistance.
