The Lagos State Ministry of Health has reassured residents that there is no immediate threat to the state despite the ongoing Ebola outbreak in parts of Central and East Africa, stressing that its biosecurity and emergency response systems remain fully active.
Commissioner for Health, Akin Abayomi, said the state government was closely monitoring the situation following directives from Babajide Sanwo-Olu.
According to the ministry, the outbreak — currently limited to Uganda and the Democratic Republic of the Congo — has resulted in about 177 deaths from nearly 700 suspected cases. The World Health Organization has classified the situation as a Public Health Emergency of International Concern due to challenges in accessing affected areas.
Abayomi stated that no suspected Ebola case had been detected in Lagos, adding that the state’s “Biosecurity Bio-shield” was designed for constant preparedness against infectious disease threats.
He explained that Lagos strengthened its emergency response systems after previous experiences with the Ebola outbreak and the COVID-19 pandemic. The framework includes the Lagos State Incident Command System led by Governor Sanwo-Olu and a 24-hour Emergency Operations Centre dedicated to disease surveillance and public health intelligence.
The commissioner also noted that the Lagos Mainland Hospital remains on high alert with isolation and intensive care facilities ready for infectious disease management. In addition, the hospital’s Biosafety Level-3 Laboratory and Biobank Facility has intensified real-time monitoring and diagnosis of high-risk pathogens.
The state government is also collaborating with agencies including the Federal Ministry of Health, Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria, Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and the Nigeria Institute of Medical Research to strengthen surveillance at entry points such as the Murtala Muhammed International Airport.
Authorities said flights arriving from East and Central Africa are undergoing enhanced health screening as part of precautionary measures.
The ministry added that community health workers, civil society organisations and local associations have been integrated into the disease surveillance network to improve early detection and information sharing. Emergency supplies such as PPE kits, gloves and sanitisers have also been strategically deployed, while ambulance services remain on standby.
Residents returning from affected countries or those who recently had contact with travellers from the region were advised to seek medical attention if symptoms arise. Emergency assistance is available through 767, 112, or the Lagos State Ministry of Health’s epidemiology unit.
A story of courage, wonder, and the transformative power of self-belief; perfect for readers aged 10+ who love adventure. To place order: +234 806 130 3237 | +234 803 582 0870 OR Tap the link to grab a copy:https://www.zeekapublish.com/product/the-magical-life-of-anna
