The Ekiti State Government has announced plans to intensify disease surveillance and rapid response mechanisms across its 16 Local Government Areas to prevent outbreaks of diseases, including Ebola Virus Disease and Diphtheria. This move is aimed at ensuring early detection, prompt reporting, and effective containment of any suspected cases. The state Commissioner for Health and Human Services, Dr. Oyebanji Filani, stated that the government's proactive measures are crucial in preventing and controlling diseases in the state.
A one-day sensitisation programme was organised for stakeholders in Ado Ekiti, the state capital, to educate them on Ebola and Diphtheria prevention and control measures. The programme, which included community and religious leaders, market leaders, transporters' representatives, artisans, and the media, aimed to strengthen prevention, early detection, and prompt reporting of suspected cases. Dr. Bosede Alowooye, Ekiti State Epidemiologist, noted that the World Health Organisation had declared Ebola a Public Health Emergency of International Concern, requiring all countries to be on high alert.
The Ekiti State Epidemiologist, Dr. Bosede Alowooye, stated that the sensitisation programme was part of the state's efforts to prevent and control diseases. She explained that the programme would educate stakeholders on the current update on Ebola and Diphtheria, as well as preventive measures to take in the state. Dr. Alowooye also disclosed that the state public health emergency operation centre had been activated and had carried out activities, including sensitising health workers, disease surveillance structures, and community informants on signs and symptoms.
As part of the state's preparedness efforts, the Ekiti airport staff have been trained on detecting passengers with sudden fever, and equipped with thermometers, sanitisers, and other essential materials. The state has also trained its case management team, including doctors and nurses, to care for potential Ebola patients. Additionally, personal protective equipment, such as hand gloves, gowns, and sanitisers, have been procured to ensure adequate protection for healthcare workers.
Dr. Bosede Alowooye listed the symptoms of Ebola, including muscle pain, headache, stomach ache, vomiting, sudden high fever, difficulty in breathing, and skin rash. She advised residents to maintain proper hand hygiene, observe personal hygiene, and promptly report suspected cases to health authorities. The epidemiologist also urged residents who had travelled to countries with reported outbreaks, such as Uganda, the Democratic Republic of Congo, and Rwanda, to seek medical attention if necessary.
Dr. Charles Doherty, General Manager of the Ekiti State Health Insurance Scheme, emphasised the importance of prevention, stating that it is better than cure. He called on residents to take necessary precautions, such as reporting any fever that persists for two or three days, and to cooperate with health workers when seeking information. Dr. Doherty also advised residents to be cautious when interacting with international travellers, especially those from countries with reported outbreaks.
The Secretary of the Nigerian Red Cross Society, Ekiti State Chapter, Mr. Atah Adegboyega, described Diphtheria as a deadly but preventable disease. He stressed the importance of routine immunisation of children and uptake of recommended vaccinations in preventing the disease. The Ekiti State Government's efforts to prevent and control diseases have been commended by stakeholders, who have expressed their support for the government's initiatives.
Key points
- The Ekiti State Government has strengthened its disease surveillance and rapid response mechanisms to prevent Ebola and Diphtheria outbreaks.
- A sensitisation programme has been organised for stakeholders to educate them on Ebola and Diphtheria prevention and control measures.
- The state has taken proactive measures, including training healthcare workers and procuring essential materials, to ensure preparedness in case of an outbreak.
