Lagos launches “Operation Bio‑Shield” to strengthen Ebola preparedness

Health

LAGOS, Nigeria (NPA) — The Lagos State Government has launched a statewide public awareness campaign tagged “Operation Lagos Bio‑Shield” to reinforce preparedness against the Ebola Virus Disease (EVD) amid ongoing outbreaks in parts of East and Central Africa.

Announcing the initiative on Saturday, the State Commissioner for Health, Prof. Akin Abayomi, reassured residents that “there are currently no confirmed cases of Ebola Virus Disease in Lagos State or anywhere in Nigeria.” He explained that the campaign was not a reaction to any crisis but a proactive measure to strengthen public awareness and prevention.

“This campaign is not a response to a crisis. It is a proactive measure to strengthen public awareness, preparedness, and prevention,” Abayomi said, emphasizing the government’s commitment to safeguarding public health through early action and strategic communication.

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The Commissioner disclosed that the current outbreak in parts of the Democratic Republic of Congo and Uganda involves the Bundibugyo strain of the virus, for which no widely available vaccine or specific antiviral treatment exists. He stressed that “prevention, early detection, rapid isolation, and supportive medical care remain our most effective tools.”

Abayomi clarified that Ebola is not transmitted through casual contact, but through direct contact with blood, bodily fluids, or contaminated materials of an infected person. He urged residents to rely only on verified information to avoid panic and stigma.

“As Nigeria’s commercial capital and a major regional transport hub, Lagos maintains extensive air, land, and maritime connections with the rest of Africa and the world,” he noted, adding that both federal and state authorities are strengthening surveillance and screening at all points of entry.

Over the coming weeks, the Ministry of Health will intensify public enlightenment through education campaigns on Ebola prevention, symptoms, and reporting channels across homes, schools, workplaces, and communities.

Residents returning from affected countries who develop symptoms such as fever, weakness, vomiting, diarrhoea, or unexplained bleeding are advised to contact emergency lines while avoiding unnecessary contact with others.

Recalling Lagos’ successful containment of Ebola in 2014, Abayomi expressed confidence in the State’s readiness:

“Through strong leadership, effective surveillance, rapid response, and the collective efforts of healthcare workers and residents, our State successfully contained Ebola and protected millions of lives. Today, we remain prepared, vigilant, and committed to safeguarding the health of every Lagosian. Together, we will keep Lagos safe,” he said.