Lagos activates emergency operations after outbreak kills 15 in DRC

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In response to growing concerns over a possible Ebola Virus Disease (EVD) outbreak, the Lagos State Government has activated its Public Health Emergency Operations Centre (PHEOC) and Incident Management Structure (IMS).

This action was taken after an emergency strategy meeting held on September 9 at Mainland Hospital in Yaba. The meeting followed recent reports from the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), where 28 suspected Ebola cases and 15 fatalities including four healthcare professionals have been recorded in a new outbreak.

During the session, public health officials evaluated the state’s level of preparedness using a detailed assessment tool. This included key areas such as infection control protocols, contact tracing capabilities, laboratory readiness, patient care, emergency evacuation plans, logistical support, risk communication strategies, and financial planning.

Speaking on behalf of the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Health, Dr. Olusegun Ogboye, the Director of Epidemiology, Biosecurity, and Global Health, Dr. Ismail Abdus-Salam, emphasized that the activation of the emergency structures was a forward-thinking approach given Lagos’ status as a major international travel hub.

He pointed out that the state already has operational facilities, including an isolation ward with 14 to 18 beds, functional diagnostic labs, and a strengthened disease surveillance system. Additionally, immediate refresher training has been scheduled for key health workers involved in surveillance, infection control, case handling, and public awareness.

“Our preparedness review has been concluded. The isolation centre is ready, laboratories are functional, and surveillance is strong. Beginning tomorrow, officers in surveillance, IPC, case management, and risk communication will undergo refresher training,” Ogboye explained.

He further revealed that updated health advisories and fact sheets on Ebola have been reviewed and will be distributed to both public and private medical institutions to ensure healthcare workers are adequately informed and vigilant.

Ogboye urged the public to remain calm, assuring that existing health safety protocols are solid enough to handle any potential cases. He also emphasized the importance of good hygiene practices, environmental cleanliness, and prompt reporting of symptoms—especially among travelers returning from regions with active outbreaks.

“Ebola is transmitted through direct contact with blood, body fluids, or contaminated items from infected persons. Anyone with fever, sore throat, or malaria-like symptoms who has recently travelled to outbreak areas should immediately call 767 or 112,” he warned.

He added that more staff have been assigned to the PHEOC, and funding requests are currently being processed to ensure a swift response in the event of a confirmed case.

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Meanwhile, at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Dr. Abdullahi Lawal, who oversees Port Health Services, confirmed that heightened screening and infection control measures are in place.

Although there are no direct flights from the DRC to Nigeria, travelers from neighboring countries such as Rwanda are under close observation, with individuals considered high-risk undergoing intensified screening procedures.

“All airport stakeholders, immigration, customs, and FAAN, have been sensitised to identify symptoms of Ebola. Travellers are also being advised on strict hygiene and to report any suspicious illness,” Lawal said.

He commended the ongoing collaboration between Lagos authorities and federal agencies at the airport, describing the joint efforts as essential in guarding against a possible resurgence of Ebola in Nigeria.

The emergency meeting brought together several key figures, including Dr. Olusola Adejumo (Director, Mainland Hospital), Dr. Bamidele Mutiu (Director, Lagos Biobank), WHO representative Dr. Memuna Esan, as well as leaders from various response units and surveillance officers—all of whom committed to maintaining heightened alertness.

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