Lagos alerts residents on Ebola, calls for heightened vigilance

The Lagos State Government has urged residents of Eti-Osa, Ibeju-Lekki and Epe to remain alert and adopt preventive measures against Ebola Virus Disease, EVD, as part of efforts to safeguard public health.

A statement issued by the Lagos state government said the call was made by the Permanent Secretary of Health District III, Dr. Monsurat Adeleke, who said residents should remain vigilant and adopt preventive measures against Ebola Virus Disease.

According to Adeleke, Ebola Virus Disease is caused by Ebola viruses and can result in severe illness and death if not detected and managed promptly.

She explained that Health District III has intensified community sensitisation programmes aimed at reducing the risk of infection and protecting residents across the affected areas.

The Permanent Secretary noted that the disease spreads mainly through direct contact with the blood, saliva, vomit and other bodily fluids of infected persons or animals.

To prevent transmission, she advised residents to avoid contact with sick persons, dead bodies and wild animals such as bats and monkeys. She also urged members of the public to maintain proper personal hygiene, make regular use of hand sanitisers and avoid eating undercooked meat.

Adeleke stressed the importance of public awareness and adherence to safety measures, noting that prevention remains the most effective way to curb the spread of the disease.

“Although there is no confirmed Ebola outbreak in Nigeria at this time, vigilance, prompt reporting, adherence to infection prevention measures, and community awareness remain essential to protecting lives and preventing the spread of the disease. As such, Health District III is working with relevant agencies to strengthen surveillance, public awareness, and emergency preparedness across Eti-Osa, Ibeju-Lekki, and Epe,” she said.