By Ameh Sunday Enyo-ojo
A medical expert, Professor Oladapo Ashiru, has advised Nigerians to avoid kissing, hugging, handshakes and unnecessary physical contact following the confirmation of an imported Ebola case in Abuja.
Ashiru, President of the Academy of Medicine Specialties of Nigeria, gave the warning during an interview on Arise Television on Wednesday.
He explained that Ebola virus disease is primarily transmitted through direct contact with the blood or other body fluids of an infected person who is showing symptoms.
The medical expert, however, clarified that the virus does not spread through the air.
“Ebola is not airborne. But avoid kisses, hugs and handshakes,” he said.
Ashiru also urged Nigerians to maintain physical distance, observe strict personal hygiene and adhere to recommended infection prevention measures to minimise the risk of transmission.
He called for the immediate activation of high-alert protocols across the country, including enhanced screening at airports, seaports and land borders.
The expert further urged health facilities to strengthen infection prevention and control measures, while advising healthcare workers to maintain a high index of suspicion and promptly isolate suspected cases.
The warning follows the confirmation of an imported Ebola case in Abuja on Tuesday.
According to the Federal Ministry of Health, the female patient arrived in Nigeria from Uganda, developed symptoms on October 7 and tested positive for the virus on October 20.
The ministry also disclosed that 44 contacts linked to the confirmed case had been identified.
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