Ebola outbreak: FG moves to prevent spread

• Urges Nigerians to remain calm 

By Doyin Ojosipe

Following the outbreak of the Ebola virus disease in some neighboring West African countries, and the emergence of the first Ebola victim in Nigeria; Minister of health, professor, C.O Onyebuchi Chukwu has disclosed plans and measures taken by the Federal Government to stall the import and spread of the Ebola virus disease (EVD), into the country.

At a press briefing Friday, the minister urged the general public not to panic as government is doing all it could by taking measures such as:

Contacting all passengers aboard the Asky airline with the infected Ebola victim, (Mr. Patrick sawyer, who is now late); and subjecting them to further investigations until all doubts are cleared of any possible contraction of the disease;

Stationing of ministry health workers, at all airports, seaports and all land borders, while being on red alert as regards quick detection of infected travelers or migrants, so as to stop the import and circulation of disease into the country;

Active surveillance have also been stepped up, while all government tertiary health institutions have been equipped to handle any emergency that may arise from the disease;

Chukwu further said that “drugs and medical consumables are presently pre-positioned, while, we are working with all the states of the federation, especially those with ports of entry to mitigate the situation.”

The Minister has however warned the public to put a stop to consumption of bush meat, bat; over familiarity with any kind of animal as the disease is said to have been contracted from animals.

He also called for personal hygiene and environmental sanitation as a preventive means; which entails regular and proper washing of hands and regular Cleaning of environment.

Chukwu also urged Nigerians to look out for signs of the Ebola infection; which are: feverish feelings that may suggest malaria or typhoid fever; vomiting, diarrhea, bleeding in body openings; such as the mouth, ear and nose; chest pain, confusion, general weakness in the body, among others.

Nigerians are enjoined to quickly call the following numbers: 08023210923, 08097979595 and 07067352220 or email at ebolainfo@health.gov.ng to channel all observations and complains for quick health evaluation.