The Cross River State Government has activated its emergency response system and intensified surveillance across the state following renewed concerns over Ebola outbreaks reported in Uganda and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).
Commissioner for Health, Dr. Henry Ayuk, disclosed the development during a media briefing in Calabar on Friday, stating that the move aligns with directives from the Federal Ministry of Health aimed at preventing the importation of the deadly virus into Nigeria.
According to Ayuk, the state's Public Health Emergency Operations Centre has been placed on alert mode to ensure rapid detection, reporting, and response to any suspected Ebola case. He noted that health authorities are closely monitoring travelers from affected countries, persons displaying symptoms associated with the disease, and unexplained deaths involving bleeding symptoms.
The commissioner revealed that active case searches and surveillance activities have been intensified across all 18 local government areas, particularly in border communities. He added that Cross River is collaborating with neighboring Cameroon and interstate border authorities to facilitate timely information sharing and coordinated disease monitoring efforts.
Ayuk further stated that health workers, surveillance officers, and port health officials are receiving additional sensitization on Ebola detection, reporting procedures, and isolation protocols. Screening and follow-up measures for travelers arriving from affected regions have also commenced at airports, seaports, and land borders.
He assured residents that no Ebola case has been recorded in Cross River State, urging citizens to remain vigilant and promptly report any suspected symptoms to health authorities. The state government also reinforced infection prevention measures in healthcare facilities, including hand hygiene practices, use of protective equipment, and strict isolation procedures.
The renewed alert comes amid heightened preparedness measures across Nigeria as health authorities work to prevent any cross-border transmission of the Ebola virus, which can cause severe illness and has a high fatality rate if not promptly contained.
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