Ebola: Oyo assures residents of safety, places healthcare workers on alert

The Oyo State government has assured residents of its readiness to prevent, detect and respond effectively to any potential threat of Ebola Virus Disease.

The reassurance came following recent reports of outbreaks in the Democratic Republic of Congo and confirmed cases in Uganda.

Ebola Virus Disease, formerly known as Ebola haemorrhagic fever, is a severe and often fatal illness that affects humans and other primates.

It is caused by the Ebola virus and is transmitted through direct contact with the blood, body fluids or tissues of infected persons or animals.

Symptoms include fever, fatigue, muscle pain, vomiting, diarrhoea and, in severe cases, internal and external bleeding.

The Commissioner for Health, Dr Oluwaserimi Ajetunmobi, stated that although Nigeria has not recorded any case of Ebola virus disease, the state government is closely monitoring developments and had activated necessary preparedness measures to safeguard the health of residents.

These were conveyed in a statement on Thursday, issued by the Commissioner for Information, Prince Dotun Oyelade, made available to newsmen in Ibadan.

Ajetunmobi reiterated Governor Seyi Makinde-led administration’s commitment to protecting the lives and wellbeing of all citizens, stressing that public health security remains a top priority of the government.

“Disease surveillance activities have been strengthened across 33 local government areas of the state, while health facilities have been placed on heightened alert,” Ajetunmobi said.

“Disease Surveillance and Notification Officers, Rapid Response Teams, laboratories, and other critical response structures had been mobilised and positioned for prompt action, should the need arise,” she added.

Ajetunmobi further revealed that the Ebola Virus Disease Technical Working Group had been activated, while all critical preparedness pillars had been strengthened to ensure the state remains fully prepared for any eventuality.

She called on healthcare workers, public and private health facilities, traditional and religious leaders, community stakeholders, and residents to remain vigilant and promptly report any suspected case presenting with symptoms such as sudden fever, weakness, vomiting, diarrhoea, unexplained bleeding, or a history of travel to affected areas.

She emphasised that there is currently no confirmed case of Ebola Virus Disease in Oyo State or Nigeria, urging residents not to panic.

She noted that preparedness remains the most effective line of defence against disease outbreaks.

She also reiterated that the Oyo state government would continue to work closely with the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention the World Health Organisation, and other relevant partners to ensure the state remains safe and adequately prepared.

Ajetunmobi urged residents to embrace vigilance, preparedness, and collective responsibility in protecting the health and wellbeing of all citizens.