Nigerians have been advised to take preventive measures against Ebola virus disease by avoiding contact with infected persons, maintaining proper hygiene and seeking prompt medical attention when symptoms develop after possible exposure.
The advice comes amid renewed concerns over the disease following reports of outbreaks in parts of Africa and a reported case involving a woman who arrived in Nigeria from Uganda.
Ebola is a serious viral disease that can spread through direct contact with the blood and other body fluids of an infected person, as well as contaminated objects and surfaces. The virus can also spread to humans through contact with infected wild animals.
Here are six ways Nigerians can reduce their risk of infection.
1. Avoid contact with infected persons and body fluids
Avoid direct physical contact with anyone suspected of having Ebola. Do not touch the blood, vomit, faeces or other body fluids of an infected person. Clothing, bedding and other items contaminated with these fluids can also transmit the virus.
Anyone suspected of having Ebola should be referred to health authorities for assessment and appropriate care.
2. Avoid handling or eating infected wild animals
Contact with infected animals, including bats and primates, can expose people to the virus. Nigerians should avoid touching wild animals found sick or dead and refrain from handling their blood or other body fluids.
Wild animal meat should be handled safely and thoroughly cooked before consumption.
3. Practise proper hand hygiene
Wash your hands regularly with soap and clean water, particularly after visiting public places or potentially contaminated environments. An alcohol-based hand sanitiser can be used when soap and water are unavailable.
Avoid touching potentially contaminated clothes, bedding and surfaces without appropriate protection.
4. Take precautions when travelling to affected areas
People planning to travel to areas experiencing Ebola outbreaks should check official health advisories and follow guidance from relevant public health authorities.
Anyone who may have been exposed to the virus while travelling should inform health officials and follow instructions on monitoring and care.
5. Use appropriate protective equipment when caring for suspected cases
People should not attempt to care for suspected Ebola patients without proper training and protective equipment. Healthcare workers and designated caregivers should follow infection-prevention guidelines, including the use of appropriate gloves, gowns and eye protection.
Families should also avoid directly handling the bodies of people who die from suspected or confirmed Ebola. Health authorities should be contacted to arrange safe and dignified burial procedures.
6. Watch for symptoms and seek medical attention promptly
Symptoms of Ebola may include fever, fatigue, muscle pain, headache, sore throat, vomiting, diarrhoea and unexplained bleeding. They can develop between two and 21 days after exposure.
Anyone who develops symptoms after possible contact with an infected person or travel to an affected area should contact health authorities or seek urgent medical assessment. They should disclose their exposure and travel history and avoid close contact with others while awaiting medical guidance.
Although Ebola is a serious disease, following public health guidance, practising good hygiene and reporting suspected cases promptly can help limit its spread.
Nigerians are advised to rely on updates from the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) and the World Health Organisation (WHO) for accurate information and current guidance.
