Anambra Intensifies Ebola Preparedness, Calls for Statewide Sensitisation
By Stanley Nwako
The Anambra State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening preparedness against the Ebola Virus Disease (EVD) following growing concerns over the ongoing regional outbreak in parts of Africa.
Speaking during a stakeholders' meeting with health partners in Awka, the Anambra State Commissioner for Health, Dr Afam Obidike, emphasized the need for heightened vigilance and public awareness, stating that every Anambra citizen must be sensitised on Ebola prevention and response measures.
The meeting, which focused on stakeholder preparedness for Ebola Virus Disease, reviewed the state's readiness to respond effectively in the event of an outbreak. Participants assessed existing response mechanisms and identified areas requiring improvement to ensure a coordinated and rapid response.
Dr Obidike urged residents to remain cautious and adhere to recommended preventive measures, stressing that public cooperation remains critical in preventing the spread of the disease. Health officials at the meeting outlined basic precautions, including regular hand hygiene, prompt reporting of suspected cases, infection prevention protocols, and rapid response strategies.
The discussions align with national efforts led by the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) to strengthen Ebola preparedness across the country. Key preparedness actions expected from states include the designation of Ebola isolation and treatment facilities, appointment of preparedness focal persons, and assessment of existing response capacities.
Other priority areas identified for urgent attention include surveillance and alert management, laboratory readiness, case management, infection prevention and control, risk communication and community engagement, logistics and commodity preparedness, points of entry surveillance, continuity of essential health services, and research.
As part of the national strategy, states are expected to implement a minimum package of preparedness actions within the next two weeks, while a weekly monitoring and reporting mechanism will be established between state governments and the NCDC to track progress and address identified gaps.
The Commissioner assured stakeholders that Anambra State would continue working closely with health partners and relevant agencies to strengthen preparedness measures and protect residents from any potential Ebola threat.
The meeting concluded with a renewed commitment from stakeholders to enhance coordination, strengthen public awareness campaigns, and ensure the state remains fully prepared to detect, respond to, and contain any suspected Ebola cases.
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