Borno State Government has put in place a Rapid Response Team to boost its readiness for any suspected outbreak of Ebola Virus Disease in the state.
The measure was disclosed on Tuesday in Maiduguri by the Director of Public Health in the Ministry of Health and Human Services during a chat with journalists.
According to the Director, the team is made up of seasoned public health experts with the mandate to promptly detect, probe and contain disease outbreaks and other health emergencies.
He said as part of preparedness, government has designated isolation centres in two health facilities for handling suspected Ebola cases.
“The team will enhance disease surveillance, probe suspected cases, track contacts, ensure safe collection of samples and enforce infection prevention and control protocols”, he explained.
He further stated that government will produce and circulate Information, Education and Communication materials to enlighten the public on Ebola prevention and the need for early reporting of suspected cases.
The Director said the team will also harmonise efforts among local councils, health institutions and other public health agencies to guarantee effective management of outbreaks.
“The preparedness plan covers provision of adequate Personal Protective Equipment, safe evacuation of suspected cases, proper waste disposal and protection of frontline health workers”, he stressed.
He added that personnel in both public and private health facilities would be trained to identify suspected cases, safely isolate such patients and immediately alert relevant health authorities.
He noted that surveillance has been intensified along major travel routes, border areas and other high-traffic locations to enable early detection of possible imported cases.
The Director underscored the need for effective risk communication and community engagement, advising residents to seek verified information, shun rumours and avoid stigmatising suspected cases.
“The state will sustain collaboration with the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention and other partners to maintain operational readiness”, he assured.
He maintained that early detection, prompt isolation, contact tracing and strict adherence to infection control measures remain key to containing any outbreak and safeguarding public health.
Borno State shares international borders with Niger, Cameroon and Chad Republics, with heavy cross-border movement and trade.