Lagos State Launches New Ebola Surveillance Measures

The Lagos State Government has intensified disease surveillance and emergency preparedness following the confirmation of an imported case of Ebola Bundibugyo virus in Abuja.

The government said there were no suspected cases in Lagos, urging residents to remain calm, stay vigilant and promptly report any possible exposure.

In a statement, the Lagos State Ministry of Health said it was strengthening surveillance and public awareness while collaborating with airport authorities and Port Health Services at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport to enhance passenger screening and emergency response.

The ministry advised residents to watch out for symptoms including fever, severe weakness, headache, muscle pain, vomiting and diarrhoea.

It noted that symptoms could appear between two and 21 days after exposure and might initially resemble malaria.

Residents were also urged to maintain regular handwashing, avoid contact with the body fluids of sick persons and seek medical advice if they suspected exposure to the virus.

The government advised anyone with concerns to contact the Lagos emergency services through 112 or 767, or reach the Ministry of Health’s Directorate of Epidemiology, Biosecurity and Global Health on 0802 316 9485.

The state government reiterated the importance of public vigilance and early reporting as it strengthens measures to prevent the spread of the virus.