NCDC Restricts Health Declaration Forms to Travellers from Ebola-Affected Countries
Nigeria Implements Enhanced Surveillance for Ebola Virus Disease
The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) has announced that travelers arriving from countries with ongoing transmission of Ebola Virus Disease (EVD) might be required to complete Health Declaration Forms. This measure is part of a set of enhanced public health surveillance protocols aimed at preventing the importation of the virus.
In an interim public health advisory issued by Dr. Jide Idris, the Director General of the NCDC, the agency emphasized the necessity of these forms for individuals identified as public health risks. This decision comes in response to the current EVD outbreak in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC).
The NCDC stated that Nigeria, in coordination with other affected nations, has taken proactive steps to bolster preventative measures. The agency noted that its latest guidance reflects an assessment of the evolving epidemiological landscape and consultations with public health experts and the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare.
“Travelers from countries with active or relevant EVD transmission may be required to complete the Health Declaration Form as part of enhanced public health surveillance and follow-up measures,” the advisory indicated.
Passengers arriving from countries not currently experiencing EVD transmission will not be required to complete this form at this time.
The NCDC urged the public to remain vigilant for symptoms associated with EVD. Individuals experiencing such symptoms are encouraged to seek medical attention promptly and report any relevant travel or exposure history.
“The general public is encouraged to remain vigilant, particularly for symptoms consistent with EVD, and to promptly seek medical attention,” the agency stated.
Nigerian authorities are currently on high alert and are actively monitoring the situation, with ongoing preparations to respond to any potential outbreaks.
All measures will be reviewed as the epidemiological situation evolves, ensuring a responsive and effective public health strategy, according to the NCDC.
The advisory has been disseminated to key government bodies, including the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria, Port Health Services, Nigeria Immigration Service, Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority, and international organizations such as the World Health Organization and Africa CDC.
