BREAKING: Nigeria on High Alert as Gov’t Introduces Traveller Screening at Borders to Prevent Ebola
The Federal Government through the Ministry of Health and Social Welfare has announced response measures to guard against the potential importation of the Bundibugyo ebolavirus disease (BEBOV).
The move follows reported outbreaks of the virus in parts of East and Central Africa, including the Democratic Republic of Congo.
In a statement issued on Tuesday in Abuja by the Assistant Director of Press and Public Relations, Ado Bako, the Ministry reassured the public that there is no confirmed outbreak currently in the country.
“The Ministry wishes to reassure Nigerians that there is presently no confirmed case of Ebola Virus Disease in Nigeria,” the statement said.
However, the statement added that authorities have activated heightened health security protocols nationwide to prevent cross-border disease transmission.
“In line with the Federal Government’s commitment to strengthening national health security and preventing cross-border disease transmission, heightened preparedness measures have been activated nationwide,” the Ministry said.
To secure the country’s entry points, the government has introduced mandatory health checks for all inbound passengers. Arriving travellers are now subject to universal temperature screening using non-invasive infrared thermal scanners and handheld thermometers. Passengers must also complete physical or digital Health Declaration Forms and undergo travel history assessments to help border authorities catch and isolate suspected cases immediately.
Beyond border checkpoints, the Ministry has strengthened the country’s domestic defense systems by upgrading Integrated Disease Surveillance and Response (IDSR) activities at all levels of the health system. Public Health Emergency Operations Centres (PHEOCs) have been activated, and Rapid Response Teams are on high alert at both national and state levels to monitor public health alerts and investigate potential rumours.
Hospitals and clinics across the country have been instructed to maintain a high index of suspicion for viral hemorrhagic fevers.
“Healthcare facilities nationwide have also been advised to maintain a high index of suspicion for viral haemorrhagic fevers, strengthen triage systems, promptly isolate suspected cases, and adhere strictly to established reporting protocols,” the statement noted.
The Ministry urged members of the public to remain calm and avoid spreading unverified rumours.
“The Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare urges members of the public to remain calm, avoid misinformation and unverified rumours, and rely only on official updates issued by recognised public health authorities,” the statement said.
Citizens are also advised to practice basic preventive hygiene, including regular handwashing, avoiding direct contact with the bodily fluids of anyone showing symptoms, and steering clear of bushmeat from unknown sources.