Nigeria steps up Ebola screening and isolation at borders
The Nigerian federal government has increased health screening measures at airports, seaports, and land borders in response to concerns about the Bundibugyo strain of Ebola in East and Central Africa. Travellers showing symptoms or identified as high-risk will undergo secondary screening, isolation, and referral. The Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, represented by Ado Bako, emphasized that there are no confirmed Ebola cases in Nigeria, but nationwide preparedness has been heightened. The ministry urged the public not to panic, stating that these are precautionary steps to keep the country safe.
Highlights
- The government has activated enhanced border surveillance and risk assessment for all incoming travellers.
- Measures include mandatory temperature checks, health declaration forms, travel history assessments, and intensified risk profiling at entry points.
- Public Health Emergency Operations Centres and Rapid Response Teams have been placed on standby nationwide.
- Hospitals and clinics are directed to strengthen infection prevention, improve triage, and promptly report suspected cases.
- The public is advised to maintain hand hygiene, avoid contact with bodily fluids of symptomatic individuals, and report unusual illnesses or deaths.
