Following the recent confirmation of an index case of Ebola virus disease in Nigeria, the Abia State Government has activated disease containment measures.
The Commissioner for Information, Prince Okey Kanu, disclosed this on Monday while briefing journalists on the outcome of this week’s State Executive Council meeting presided over by Governor Alex Otti.
Prince Kanu said the State Ministry of Health had put in place adequate measures and protocols to prevent the spread of the disease into Abia in addition to launching plans for a public awareness campaigns
The Commissioner said the Ministry of Health and the Ministry of Information participated over the weekend in a meeting convened by the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Professor Muhammad Ali Pate.
He said the meeting was convened to familiarise State Governments with the Federal Government’s efforts to contain and manage the outbreak.
Prince Kanu added that the state Ministry of Health had issued preventive guidelines through its Week 43 health advisory to strengthen public awareness and promote precautionary measures.
He urged residents to remain calm, observe recommended hygiene practices and avoid large crowds as much as possible.
“Ebola virus disease can be serious and even life-threatening but can be prevented as well.
“Our people are advised not to panic but observe good hygiene practices and as much as possible avoid large crowds at this time”, Prince Kanu said.
He further disclosed that the Ministries of Health and Information, in collaboration with the Abia State Orientation Agency, were preparing a joint public awareness campaign to educate residents on Ebola prevention and control.
According to him, the campaign is expected to complement the Ministry of Health’s advisory by informing residents about preventive measures and encouraging responsible health practices.
Prince Kanu said the State Government remains committed to protecting residents through preventive action and public enlightenment.
