Oyo State Government Reassures Citizens of Protection Amidst Fears Over Ebola Outbreak

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The Oyo State Government has assured residents of its readiness to prevent, detect, and respond effectively to any potential threat of the Ebola Virus Disease (EVD).

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The state commissioner for health, Dr Oluwaserimi Ajetunmobi, stated this in a statement in Ibadan on Thursday.

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The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the statement followed recent reports of Ebola outbreaks in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and confirmed cases in Uganda.

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The commissioner stated that although Nigeria had not recorded any case of EVD, the state government is closely monitoring developments.

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She added that the government has activated all necessary measures to safeguard residents’ health, noting that preparedness remains the most effective line of defence against disease outbreaks.

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According to her, the Gov. Seyi Makinde-led administration remains fully committed to protecting the lives and well-being of all citizens; hence, public health security remains the government’s priority.

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The commissioner disclosed that disease surveillance activities have been strengthened across the state’s 33 local government areas, with health facilities placed on heightened alert.

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Ajetunmobi said Disease Surveillance and Notification Officers (DSNOs), rapid response teams, laboratories, and other critical response structures have been mobilised and are on standby for prompt action if needed.

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She further revealed that the EVD Technical Working Group has been activated, while all critical preparedness pillars have been strengthened to ensure the state remains fully prepared for any eventuality.

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She called on healthcare workers, public and private health facilities, traditional and religious leaders, community stakeholders, and residents to remain vigilant and promptly report any suspected case presenting with symptoms.

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The commissioner listed the symptoms to include sudden fever, weakness, vomiting, diarrhoea, unexplained bleeding, or a history of travel to the affected areas.

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She, however, urged residents not to panic, stressing there is currently no confirmed case of EVD in Oyo State or Nigeria.

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She reiterated the government’s cooperation with the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC), the World Health Organization (WHO), and others.

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The working relationship, she said, was to ensure the state remained safe and adequately prepared. (NAN)

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