Dare Babalola
The National Orientation Agency (NOA) in Osun State has called on residents to stay alert and strictly observe preventive health measures amid renewed concerns over the potential spread of Ebola Virus Disease.
The advisory was issued in a statement on Tuesday by the State Director of the agency, Adebiyi Adefarasin Stephen, following increased global monitoring of the disease and fears of possible cross-border transmission.
The agency noted that the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) has placed the country on heightened surveillance, despite no confirmed case of Ebola currently recorded in Nigeria.
Residents were urged to take precautionary steps to protect themselves and their communities from possible infection, according to the statement.
The NOA explained that Ebola is transmitted through direct contact with the blood, secretions, or other bodily fluids of infected humans or animals.
It also listed common symptoms to include sudden fever, extreme weakness, vomiting, diarrhoea, and unexplained bleeding.
Members of the public were advised to maintain proper hygiene, including frequent handwashing with soap and clean water, as part of preventive efforts.
The agency further cautioned residents against contact with sick individuals and the consumption of bush meat, while stressing the importance of immediately reporting suspected cases to the nearest health facility.
“Early reporting and strict hygiene practices remain our strongest defence against Ebola,” the statement quoted Adebiyi as saying.
The agency reassured residents to remain calm but vigilant, and encouraged them to rely solely on verified updates from official health authorities.
