FG steps up airport screening against Ebola risk

The Federal Government has tightened health screening measures for travellers arriving in Nigeria from countries with active or relevant transmission of Ebola Virus Disease (EVD).

The apex government through its Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) said the measure is part of enhanced public health surveillance aimed at preventing the importation and spread of Ebola in the country, amid the ongoing outbreak in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC).

In an interim public health advisory issued on Tuesday, and signed by the NCDC Director-General, Dr Jide Idris, the agency said travellers from countries with active or relevant EVD transmission may be required to complete Health Declaration Forms as part of enhanced surveillance and follow-up measures.

The NCDC, however, clarified that passengers arriving from all other countries are currently exempt from completing the form.

The agency urged members of the public to remain vigilant, particularly for symptoms consistent with Ebola, and to promptly seek medical attention while providing relevant travel or exposure history where applicable.

It said Nigeria remains on high alert, with all preparatory activities ongoing to strengthen the country’s preparedness and response to the disease.

According to the NCDC, the measures will continue to be reviewed in line with the evolving epidemiological situation and public health risk assessment.

The agency reaffirmed its commitment to protecting Nigerians through evidence-based surveillance, preparedness and response to public health threats.