Ebola alert: NOA calls for vigilance in Benue
Benue Residents Urged to Stay Vigilant Amid Ebola Warning
The National Orientation Agency (NOA) has urged residents of Benue State to remain vigilant and adhere to precautionary measures in light of a nationwide alert regarding the Ebola Virus Disease (EVD) issued by the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC).
Mark Dewua, the Benue State Director of NOA, emphasized that while Nigeria currently has no confirmed cases of Ebola, the potential for cross-border transmission remains a concern due to increased international travel.
“Ebola is a severe and often fatal illness spread through direct contact with the blood or body fluids of an infected person or animal,” Dewua stated.
He advised the public to be alert for symptoms of the disease, which include sudden fever, weakness, headache, sore throat, muscle pain, vomiting, diarrhea, and unexplained bleeding. Dewua stressed that individuals experiencing these symptoms should seek immediate medical attention.
As part of its preventive strategy, the agency recommended that residents practice regular handwashing with soap and water or use hand sanitizers. Additionally, NOA urged the public to avoid close contact with anyone displaying symptoms of the disease, refrain from handling the blood or personal belongings of infected individuals without appropriate protection, and avoid touching dead animals or bushmeat.
Dewua also reaffirmed the importance of maintaining proper hygiene practices, promptly reporting suspected cases to health facilities, and obtaining information solely from reputable health authorities.
The agency reiterated its commitment to protecting public health and called on residents to fully cooperate with health officials to prevent the potential spread of Ebola in Benue State and across Nigeria.
