The University of Lagos, Akoka, Yaba, on Tuesday issued a health advisory to members of the university community amid an Ebola case detected in Abuja.
The institution issued the advisory following the confirmed case of the disease earlier in the day, in the Federal Capital Territory, involving a woman said to have arrived Nigeria from Uganda.
The institution said, “Ebola spreads through direct contact with the blood or body fluids of someone who is sick with the disease or has died from it, or through contact with contaminated materials. Early detection, prompt reporting, and everyone’s cooperation are critical to preventing further spread.
“Members of the University of Lagos (UNILAG) community are advised to observe the following precautionary measures: Remain calm but vigilant: There is no need for panic. Stay informed through official public health updates.
“Practise good hand hygiene: Wash your hands frequently with soap and running water or use an appropriate alcohol-based hand sanitiser. Avoid direct contact with the blood and other body fluids of anyone suspected of having Ebola.
“Be alert to possible symptoms: These may include fever, severe weakness, headache, muscle pain, vomiting, and diarrhoea. Seek prompt medical guidance if symptoms develop, particularly following a possible exposure.
“Report suspected exposure promptly: If you believe you may have been exposed to the virus, contact public health authorities immediately, even if you feel well. If you develop symptoms, avoid close contact with others and call public health authorities for guidance before visiting a healthcare facility.
“Cooperate with public health authorities: Anyone contacted by public health teams for contact tracing, including potentially exposed airline passengers, should provide the necessary information and comply with official guidance.”
The institution, while advising that information must be shared only from credible and official sources, warned against the spreading of unverified reports and the discrimination of anyone suspected of exposure to the disease.
Members of the university’s community were therefore urged to take the precautionary measures seriously and cooperate fully with public health authorities.
The university noted that early detection, prompt reporting, and collective responsibility were essential to preventing further transmission.
“For further information or to report a suspected case, please call the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) toll-free line on 6232,” it noted.
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