Lagos urges vigilance against Ebola in Eti-Osa, Ibeju-Lekki, Epe

The Lagos State Government has urged residents of Eti-Osa, Ibeju-Lekki and Epe local government areas to remain vigilant and adopt preventive measures against Ebola Virus Disease.

The call was made this week by the Lagos State Health District III as part of efforts to strengthen public awareness, surveillance and preparedness against possible health threats.

In a statement signed by the Permanent Secretary, Health District III, Dr Monsurat Adeleke, the government described Ebola as a viral disease that can cause severe illness and death if not detected and managed promptly.

Adeleke said the sensitisation campaign was aimed at reducing the risk of transmission by educating residents on preventive practices and early reporting of suspected cases.

She explained that Ebola spreads mainly through direct contact with the blood, saliva, vomit and other bodily fluids of infected humans or animals.

The Permanent Secretary advised residents to avoid contact with individuals suspected to be infected, dead bodies and wild animals such as bats and monkeys, which can serve as carriers of the virus.

She also urged residents to maintain proper hygiene, use hand sanitisers regularly and avoid consuming undercooked meat.

Although there is no confirmed Ebola outbreak in Nigeria at this time, vigilance, prompt reporting, adherence to infection prevention measures, and community awareness remain essential to protecting lives and preventing the spread of the disease,” Adeleke said.

She added that Health District III was working with relevant agencies to strengthen disease surveillance, public education and emergency preparedness across the three local government areas.

The district urged residents to remain alert and promptly report unusual symptoms or suspected cases to appropriate health authorities as part of collective efforts to protect public health.