The Ekiti State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding the health and well-being of residents through proactive and evidence-based preparedness activities. According to the State Epidemiologist, Bosede Alowooye, the government has strengthened its preparedness for a possible Ebola Virus Disease outbreak following the resurgence of outbreaks in parts of Africa. This move is in response to increased cross-border movement, which has made sustained vigilance and preparedness necessary.
A two-day refresher training and simulation exercise for case managers and other health personnel was held at the Federal Teaching Hospital, Ido Ekiti. The exercise aimed to test and improve the state’s capacity for early detection, isolation, safe management, and referral of suspected EVD cases. The training combined classroom lectures with a practical simulation of the management of a suspected EVD case presenting at a health facility.
Participants were trained on EVD epidemiology and case definition, early detection and notification protocols, infection prevention and control, standard precautions, proper donning and doffing of personal protective equipment, environmental safety, and coordination mechanisms. These measures are critical for preventing nosocomial transmission and ensuring a coordinated and effective response to suspected cases.
The Ministry of Health provided full Personal Protective Equipment kits for the practical sessions and deployed a standby ambulance to simulate safe transportation and referral procedures. According to Alowooye, the state government is committed to safeguarding the health and well-being of residents through proactive and evidence-based preparedness activities.
A facilitator, Olumuyiwa Ariyo, observed that the exercise showed a high level of commitment and improved practical competence among participants. Ariyo stressed the need for continuous availability of PPE and infection prevention and control commodities, as well as clear communication channels with defined roles and responsibilities during public health emergencies.
Stakeholders at the exercise recommended regular refresher training and simulation exercises across health facilities in the state, adequate stockpiling of PPE and IPC materials, and ensuring that standard operating procedures and emergency protocols were readily accessible. Strengthening the state’s referral and ambulance system and sustaining collaboration between the ministry and tertiary health institutions were also recommended.
The participants, drawn from various health facilities and the state Ministry of Health and Human Services, commended the state Ministry of Health and Human Services for organising the training and sustaining investments in health system strengthening and other public health interventions in the state. The Commissioner, Oyebanji Filani, was credited with leading the ministry's efforts in this regard.
Key points
- Ekiti State Government strengthens preparedness for possible Ebola Virus Disease outbreak
- Health personnel trained on EVD epidemiology, case definition, and management
- State government assures residents of its health system's vigilance and preparedness
