Adedokun Waliyu 
In response to the recent Ebola Virus Disease situation in parts of Central Africa, the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) has assured the travelling public and stakeholders that preventive measures have been put in place across all international airports.
The outbreak, centered in DRC’s Ituri Province, has spread to Uganda and has raised regional concerns due to reported cases and deaths.
FAAN said it is working with Port Health Services, the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC), and other relevant agencies to strengthen surveillance and monitoring of passengers, especially those arriving from high-risk regions.
Passengers are being screened for symptoms associated with Ebola, and any suspected case will be isolated and subjected to further health checks in line with national and international health protocols.
The authority also stated that it has strengthened coordination with stakeholders, improved staff sensitisation, and reinforced emergency response procedures to ensure quick action when necessary.
It added that although there is currently no confirmed case of Ebola in Nigeria, it remains vigilant and committed to safeguarding public health and maintaining safe airport operations.
A health expert noted that the current outbreak involves a different strain known as the Bundibugyo strain, which differs from the 2014 Zaire strain.
According to the expert, there are no known treatments or vaccines for this strain, making early detection and supportive care the main approach to management.
Symptoms to watch for include fever, body weakness, headache, vomiting, diarrhea, and in some severe cases, bleeding.
Health authorities are advising Nigerians to remain cautious and maintain preventive measures as monitoring continues.
