Isaac Samuel
The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) has urged Nigerians travelling to and from Ebola-affected areas to remain vigilant and monitor their health for 21 days after leaving affected locations.
The agency, in a public health advisory signed by its Director-General of the NCDC, Dr Jide Idris, said travellers should familiarise themselves with the symptoms of Ebola disease and avoid unnecessary contact with others if symptoms develop.
It advised anyone who develops symptoms after travelling from an affected area to immediately contact the appropriate public health authorities or seek care at a recognised health facility, while clearly disclosing their travel and possible exposure history.
The NCDC also directed healthcare workers who encounter suspected cases to immediately isolate patients, apply appropriate transmission-based precautions and use the required personal protective equipment.
It said suspected cases should be reported through established surveillance channels and that appropriate precautions should be maintained until patients are safely handed over to designated public health teams for further assessment, testing and management.
The agency said it was monitoring developments in Kenya, the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and other affected countries, while working with national, regional and international partners to assess the implications for Nigeria and strengthen preparedness.
“Finally, Nigeria’s experience with Ebola underscores the importance of early detection and rapid response in preventing onward transmission,” the NCDC said.
It urged state governments, healthcare workers and members of the public to remain vigilant and support ongoing preparedness efforts.
“Further updates will be provided as the regional situation evolves,” it added.
