National Orientation Agency, Akwa Ibom Directorate has issued a critical public health advisory following reports of a fresh outbreak of the Ebola Virus Disease (EVD) in some parts of Africa.
The Akwa Ibom State Director, Mkpoutom Mkpoutom, in a statement called on all citizens and residents of the state to be on high alert and to strictly adhere to preventive measures to avoid a potential spread.
Mkpoutom emphasized that while the state remains unaffected at the moment, the proximity of the outbreak to other regions necessitates a proactive response.
“Ebola is a severe, often fatal illness in humans. We cannot afford to be complacent,” Mkpoutom warned.
“The virus is transmitted to people from wild animals and spreads in the human population through direct contact with the blood, secretions, organs, or other bodily fluids of infected persons. Our primary duty now is to educate the public and prevent panic while promoting safety.”
He urged Akwa Ibom citizens to maintain strict hygiene of washing of hands frequently with soap under running water or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
Mkpoutom added that citizens should not touch or handle the body fluids of anyone suspected to be ill without protective gear while ensuring that all meat products, including bush meat, are cooked thoroughly before consumption.
He added that anyone experiencing symptoms such as sudden fever, intense weakness, muscle pain, headache, and sore throat especially after traveling to an affected area should report immediately to the nearest health facility.
He also called on traditional rulers, community leaders, and religious institutions to join the campaign by disseminating accurate information to their followers.
“Rumors and misinformation can be as dangerous as the virus itself. Please rely on information from the NOA, the Ministry of Health, and the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) for updates,” he added.
He noted that the Agency has launched an immediate awareness campaign across the 31 Local Government Areas of the state, deploying all its information dissemination apparatus to ensure every citizen is adequately informed.
While assuring the public that the State Government under the able leadership of Governor Umo Eno has directed health authorities to place surveillance teams on standby to respond to any suspected cases.
