LAWMA issues Ebola preparedness advisory to Lagos health facilities

The Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA) has issued a precautionary public health advisory directing health facilities and medical waste handlers across Lagos State to enforce strict infection prevention protocols.

The Managing Director of LAWMA, Dr Muyiwa Gbadegesin, gave the advisory in a statement on Friday in Lagos.

According to him, this directive is a proactive, preventive strategy triggered by the recent Ebola Virus Disease (EVD) outbreak reported in parts of East Africa.

Gbadegesin said the directive was aimed at strengthening preparedness and ensuring strict compliance with infection prevention and medical waste management protocols.

He stressed that no confirmed case of Ebola Virus Disease had been recorded in Lagos State or elsewhere in Nigeria.

According to him, the advisory is a proactive measure designed to reinforce existing public health safeguards.

Gbadegesin said effective medical waste management remained essential to preventing the spread of infectious diseases.

He noted that proper waste handling also protects healthcare workers, patients, waste handlers and the public.

“Although there is currently no confirmed case of Ebola in Lagos or Nigeria, preparedness remains one of the most effective tools in disease prevention,” he said.

He urged health facilities and licensed medical waste operators to strengthen infection prevention and control measures.

The LAWMA boss called for strict adherence to approved medical waste management procedures.

He advised healthcare facilities to reinforce hand hygiene and the use of personal protective equipment.

Gbadegesin also urged safe handling of medical specimens and proper environmental decontamination practices.

He emphasised the need for strict segregation of infectious waste at source.

The managing director advised waste handlers and transporters to comply with approved collection, transportation and disposal procedures.

He urged operators to consistently use appropriate protective equipment during waste management activities.

Gbadegesin said LAWMA would continue monitoring compliance and engaging stakeholders to maintain high standards.

He also urged health institutions to review their infection prevention protocols and remain vigilant.

According to him, suspected public health concerns should be reported promptly through appropriate channels.

Gbadegesin reassured residents that Lagos remained on high alert against potential public health threats.

He said the state had sustained surveillance, preparedness and response mechanisms to safeguard public health.

He added that training, sensitisation and compliance initiatives would continue across the state.