Ebola: FAAN steps up airport surveillance, urges calm, vigilance

FAAN MD, Olubunmi Onabanjo-Kuku.

The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria has heightened health surveillance across airport operations following a confirmed case of Ebola Virus Disease in the Federal Capital Territory.

The authority said it was working with the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention, Port Health Services, the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority and other relevant agencies to support ongoing containment efforts.

FAAN disclosed this in a press release issued on Tuesday by its Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, Henry Agbebire.

According to the authority, the early identification of the case and the commencement of contact tracing underscore the importance of effective health surveillance and collaboration among relevant agencies in responding to public health threats.

“The early identification of the case and commencement of contact tracing underscore the importance of established public health protocols, effective surveillance and inter-agency collaboration in responding to potential health threats,” the statement said.

FAAN said it was maintaining heightened vigilance across airport operations and would continue to coordinate with public health authorities to implement further guidance and support additional measures considered necessary to protect passengers, airport personnel and the general public.

The authority also urged passengers, airport users, airlines and other stakeholders to remain calm, vigilant and cooperative with health officials.

“The public is also advised to rely on verified information and avoid spreading unconfirmed reports,” the statement added.

• Morning recap: Nigeria confirms Ebola case, state police bill, $120m fraud probe, other top stories
• Ebola: NCDC details patient’s arrival, symptoms, diagnosis
• Ebola: How Nigerians can prevent infection

FAAN reassured travellers of its readiness to work with relevant agencies to safeguard public health and ensure the safe operation of airports across the country.

The authority reiterated its commitment to supporting ongoing efforts to contain the outbreak while maintaining vigilance at Nigeria’s airports.

PUNCH Online had reported that the Federal Government on Tuesday confirmed Nigeria’s first imported case of Ebola virus disease in the Federal Capital Territory after a woman who recently travelled from Uganda tested positive for the infection.

The Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof Ali Pate, said 44 contacts had been identified for monitoring, including healthcare workers, patients, caregivers and people who might have travelled with the woman.

Pate disclosed that the patient was isolated and receiving medical care, while health authorities intensified contact tracing to prevent further transmission.