By Emmanuel Awari, Jalingo
The Taraba State Government has intensified disease surveillance and announced plans to introduce fever screening at the state’s airport following reports of an Ebola case in Abuja.
The Commissioner for Health, Dr Bordiya Gbansheya Buma, said the government was working with the Federal Ministry of Health, the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC), and other relevant authorities to strengthen surveillance and prepare healthcare facilities for possible cases.
Buma directed all public and private healthcare facilities to remain on high alert and immediately report suspected cases to the Ministry of Health.
He also announced plans to train healthcare workers and intensify public awareness campaigns across the state.
Residents were advised to watch out for symptoms such as fever, severe weakness, headache, vomiting and diarrhoea.
The commissioner explained that Ebola spreads through direct contact with the blood or other body fluids of an infected person who is showing symptoms.
He urged residents to maintain proper hand hygiene, avoid contact with the body fluids of suspected patients and promptly report possible exposure to health authorities.
Buma also warned against spreading rumours and misinformation or stigmatising suspected patients. He urged the public to cooperate with health officials during contact-tracing exercises.
While assuring residents of the government’s preparedness, he appealed for calm and vigilance and urged them to adhere strictly to official health guidelines.
For health information or to report suspected cases, residents can contact the NCDC toll-free line on 6232, available 24 hours a day.