The Enugu State Government has strengthened disease surveillance and placed health officials on alert across its 17 local government areas. The move follows the confirmation of an Ebola case in Abuja.
Commissioner for Health, Prof. George Ugwu, announced the measures on Wednesday in Enugu. He spoke during a press conference on the state’s response to the confirmed case.
Ugwu said the government had reactivated the Enugu State Public Health Emergency Operations Centre (PHEOC). The centre will coordinate preparedness, surveillance and response activities.
The state has also intensified monitoring across its 17 local government areas. These efforts include stronger coordination with relevant agencies and health partners.
The government’s action follows other public health measures in Enugu, including its response to diphtheria concerns in the state. Authorities continue to emphasise early detection and preparedness for infectious diseases.
Enugu Strengthens Airport Surveillance
Ugwu said the government was strengthening surveillance around Akanu Ibiam International Airport. The state is working with Port Health Services and other relevant stakeholders.
The government has also kept its Rapid Response Teams and technical personnel on standby. Officials are reviewing preparedness measures to ensure a prompt response if they identify a suspected case.
In addition, the state is intensifying public awareness and risk communication. The aim is to provide residents with accurate and timely information.
The airport remains an important entry point into Enugu. Its monitoring arrangements have also featured in recent developments involving activities at Akanu Ibiam International Airport.
Ugwu said the Ministry of Health would continue working with the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare. The partnership also involves relevant agencies and other health partners.
Their efforts will focus on preparedness, early detection, effective response and timely communication. The government said it was taking precautions without creating unnecessary fear or panic.
Enugu Health Commissioner Advises Health Workers
Ugwu urged health workers to maintain a high index of suspicion for possible Ebola cases. He also stressed the need to follow infection prevention and control procedures.
Health workers should use appropriate protective equipment and report suspected cases promptly. They must follow established reporting channels to ensure a coordinated response.
The commissioner assured health personnel that the government would provide necessary support and guidance. He said their safety remained important to effective disease management.
The state’s preparedness also reflects wider concerns about access to healthcare and disease prevention. Enugu has worked with development partners on health programmes, including the UNICEF-supported fight against malnutrition.
The government has also highlighted healthcare investment as part of its development agenda. Its wider plans include projects featured in this report on Enugu’s development achievements.
Residents Urged to Remain Calm and Vigilant
Ugwu reassured residents that Enugu had no confirmed Ebola case at the time of his announcement. He said the measures were precautionary and urged the public to remain calm.
He advised residents to maintain good hand hygiene and avoid contact with the body fluids of sick people. Anyone who feels unwell should seek medical attention promptly.
Residents should also report anyone suspected of having symptoms that require urgent medical assessment. However, they should rely on health professionals rather than spread unverified claims.
The commissioner urged public and private health facilities to remain on heightened alert. He said health workers should pay particular attention to people with relevant travel or exposure histories.
This approach supports the state’s wider efforts to strengthen health services. Enugu has also continued to address healthcare staffing needs, including through healthcare and support staff recruitment in Nkanu East.
Hospitals Directed to Report Suspected Cases Promptly
Ugwu directed health facilities to isolate suspected cases promptly and notify the appropriate authorities. They must contact their Disease Surveillance and Notification Officer (DSNO) or the State Public Health Emergency Operations Centre.
Facilities must also maintain strict infection prevention and control measures. The commissioner said early detection and prompt reporting were critical to preventing transmission.
He called on all health facilities to cooperate with the Enugu State Ministry of Health and other response agencies. The government will continue monitoring the situation and reviewing its preparedness arrangements.
The state’s approach also reflects the importance of functional health facilities and trained personnel. A recent report on the Nigerian Guild of Editors’ tour of Enugu projects highlighted healthcare infrastructure among the state’s development priorities.
The government has repeatedly linked healthcare improvements to its wider development programme. Its priorities include better access to essential services, as outlined in Enugu’s efforts to sustain development gains.
Enugu Had Begun Ebola Preparedness Measures at Airport
The state government said it had been implementing Ebola prevention and preparedness measures at Akanu Ibiam International Airport for months. The airport serves as an international entry point into Enugu.
The ongoing measures involve the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC). Other partners include the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, Port Health Services, airport authorities and relevant agencies.
The collaboration aims to strengthen surveillance and support early detection. It also helps ensure that suspected cases receive appropriate attention through established public health channels.
Enugu’s wider infrastructure programme includes improvements to facilities that support public services. The state’s development plans also feature in reports on healthcare and other major projects.
The government urged residents to remain calm, practise good hygiene and follow official health guidance. It said continued vigilance and cooperation would help protect public health across the state.
