Ebola: FG directs hospitals to prepare isolation centres, protective equipment

The Federal Government has instructed healthcare facilities throughout Nigeria to enhance their isolation centers and stockpile protective gear and medical supplies in anticipation of a potential Ebola Virus Disease (EVD) outbreak. Dr Yunus Mohammed Eze, Deputy Head of Clinical Services at the Federal Medical Centre in Birnin Kudu, Jigawa State, provided further details to newsmen.

The directive, issued by the Federal Ministry of Health, mandates hospitals to establish emergency response protocols for the timely identification, isolation, and management of potential Ebola patients. FMC Birnin Kudu has already taken action, reinforcing its isolation unit and deploying healthcare staff on high alert. The Federal Government, via the Ministry of Health, contacted health facilities nationwide to prepare their isolation units and ensure the availability of all necessary protective measures for both medical personnel and patients.

Upon receiving the directive, the hospital promptly acted, expanding its isolation facility and preparing to isolate suspected cases and facilitate appropriate referrals. Eze emphasized the hospital's commitment to public awareness, intensifying health education through its Infectious Diseases Unit and Community Medicine Unit to inform residents about infectious diseases and preventive measures.

The institution is also partnering with the Jigawa State Media Corporation to disseminate information on disease prevention and the significance of promptly reporting suspected cases. Healthcare professionals continuously educate patients and visitors, urging them to share this knowledge with their families and communities.