Delta Steps Up Ebola Preparedness, Reviews Emergency Response

The Delta State Government has stepped up efforts to guard against a possible Ebola outbreak, with the Ministry of Health reviewing its disease surveillance and emergency response arrangements across the state.

The Commissioner for Health, Dr Joseph Onojaeme, made this known during a meeting with the Permanent Secretary of the ministry, directors and staff of the Epidemiology Unit.

The meeting reviewed existing surveillance systems, emergency response plans and the availability of resources needed to respond to a possible outbreak across the 25 local government areas.

Onojaeme stressed the need for health officials to remain alert and ensure that any suspected case is identified and reported without delay.

He said the state’s preparedness depended largely on effective surveillance, early detection and a prompt response to suspected cases.

The commissioner directed the Epidemiology Unit to strengthen disease monitoring at entry points, health facilities and within communities to ensure that unusual health developments are quickly reported and investigated.

He also called for regular training of frontline health workers to prepare them for the early identification and management of suspected cases.

Onojaeme said the ministry was intensifying public awareness campaigns and strengthening facilities designated to handle emergency health situations.

He added that the government would continue to provide personal protective equipment, testing kits and other essential supplies to support health workers and emergency response teams.

The commissioner urged residents to maintain good hygiene, pay attention to public health advisories and report suspected symptoms promptly to health authorities.

He said cooperation between residents and health officials remained important in preventing the spread of infectious diseases and protecting communities across the state.