The Lagos State Government is stepping up its efforts to prepare for Ebola Virus Disease (EVD) after a case was confirmed in Abuja. The state has upgraded its isolation centre and aims to deliver laboratory test results within 24 hours.
The State Commissioner for Health, Prof. Akin Abayomi, said in a statement that Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has asked all relevant agencies to stay alert and prepared.
Abayomi explained that Lagos is making this a priority because many people travel between Lagos and Abuja.
He said the state’s Emergency Operations Centre started preparations before the confirmed case, with teams running simulation exercises so responders know their roles.
He said the state’s isolation centre has been upgraded and more capacity is being added. Health workers in both public and private facilities are also receiving ongoing training, focusing on infection prevention and control.
The commissioner said the state is establishing a clear process for laboratory testing and aims to deliver results within 24 hours. “Our isolation centre has been upgraded, and we are adding more capacity,” Abayomi said.
“We are defining a clear pathway from sample to result, targeting results within 24 hours.”
He also said a special Ebola Research Committee was reviewing the latest information on treatments and vaccines to inform decisions.
Abayomi said the state was improving screening at airports and other entry points, working together with federal partners.
He explained that SHIP was upgrading disease surveillance with digital tools to better detect, trace, and respond quickly to suspected cases.
The commissioner encouraged residents to wash their hands often with soap and water and to avoid contact with the blood and body fluids of anyone who is sick.
He advised that anyone with fever, weakness, vomiting, diarrhoea, unexplained bleeding, or who thinks they may have been exposed to the virus, should not self-medicate. Instead, they should call health authorities before going to a health facility.
Abayomi also urged health workers to maintain a high index of suspicion, ask patients about their travel history and use personal protective equipment.
Residents were advised to report suspected cases or exposure through the Lagos State emergency numbers, 112 and 767, or the Directorate of Epidemiology, Biosecurity and Global Health on 0802 316 9485.
He urged residents to remain calm, stay alert and rely on official information from the Lagos State Ministry of Health.