The Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare has intensified national preparedness and surveillance measures against the Bundibugyo Ebola virus disease currently ravaging the Democratic Republic of Congo and Uganda, stating in a release on Tuesday that while no confirmed case of the virus has been reported in Nigeria, heightened precautionary measures have been activated nationwide.
The ministry listed the measures to include enhanced screening at airports, seaports, and land borders; strengthened surveillance and monitoring systems; activation of emergency preparedness structures; reinforced laboratory and rapid response readiness; and ongoing sensitisation and training for healthcare personnel.
On border control, the statement noted that incoming travellers are mandated to complete health declaration forms and travel history assessments, while travellers presenting symptoms consistent with viral haemorrhagic fevers detected by thermal scanners are isolated for secondary screenings and referrals.
On readiness, the ministry said rapid response teams have been alerted for deployment at national and sub-national levels as enhanced integrated disease surveillance and response activities commence nationwide. The ministry added that it is actively monitoring, verifying, and investigating public health alerts and rumours. The health ministry urged Nigerians to remain calm, avoid misinformation, maintain proper hygiene practices, and rely only on verified public health information from official sources.
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