Anambra State Government has stepped up measures to improve its readiness against a possible outbreak of Ebola Virus Disease (EVD), following renewed concerns over reported cases in some African countries.
As part of the initiative, health authorities in Anambra convened a stakeholders’ meeting in Awka to evaluate the state’s emergency response framework and identify areas requiring immediate improvement.
The meeting brought together health partners and relevant agencies to review existing preparedness structures and strengthen coordination.
The Commissioner for Health, Dr. Afam Obidike, said “the government was intensifying disease surveillance, public enlightenment campaigns, and response strategies to ensure the state remains capable of managing any potential Ebola-related emergency”.
He emphasized the need for residents to remain alert and well-informed about preventive measures, stressing that public awareness plays a critical role in reducing the risk of disease transmission.
The commissioner also encouraged prompt reporting of suspected cases and adherence to established health guidelines.
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Participants at the meeting highlighted several priority actions, including improved hand hygiene practices, strengthened infection prevention and control measures, early case identification, and rapid response systems aimed at containing possible outbreaks.
The state’s preparedness efforts are in line with nationwide initiatives coordinated by the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) to enhance Ebola readiness across the country. Under the national strategy, states are expected to establish isolation and treatment facilities, appoint dedicated Ebola preparedness officers, and assess their response capabilities.
Other areas identified for urgent attention include surveillance and alert management, laboratory capacity, case management, risk communication, community engagement, logistics planning, border health monitoring, continuity of essential healthcare services, and research activities.
Health officials noted that states are expected to implement key preparedness measures within a short timeframe, while regular monitoring and reporting mechanisms will be introduced to track progress and address operational gaps.
The Anambra State Government reaffirmed its commitment to working closely with health partners and relevant institutions to strengthen disease preparedness and protect residents from potential health threats.
The meeting ended with stakeholders pledging to enhance collaboration, expand public education programmes, and improve the state’s capacity to detect, manage, and contain any suspected Ebola cases effectively.
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