The Enugu State government has resuscitated its Emergency Operations Centre (EOC) to strengthen disease surveillance, intensify emergency preparedness and address identified gaps in the state’s response mechanisms.

These actions follow the confirmation of an Ebola Virus Disease (EVD) case in the Federal Capital Territory on October 20.

The state Commissioner for Health, George Ugwu, disclosed this on Wednesday, shortly after an EOC meeting convened to review the state’s level of Ebola prevention and preparedness.

Mr Ugwu said the EOC meeting was meant to reinforce coordinated efforts to prevent and respond effectively to potential public health threats.

He noted that the confirmed case had triggered the need for Enugu State to step up its preparedness, thoroughly identify existing gaps and take proactive measures to strengthen its response capacity.

Mr Ugwu reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to safeguarding the health and well-being of residents, highlighting the administration’s sustained investments and ongoing efforts to strengthen the health sector.

The commissioner emphasised that the reactivation of the EOC demonstrated the importance the government attached to early detection, effective coordination and timely intervention in protecting the population against public health emergencies.

He said that during the meeting, various EOC pillars gave updates on activities undertaken so far and outlined measures being implemented to enhance the state’s readiness.

He said discussions also focused on identified operational gaps, with participants reviewing the challenges and proposing measures to address them.

Mr Ugwu said, however, that the completion and effective implementation of health declaration forms at the point of entry remained a significant concern requiring urgent attention.

“The meeting provided an opportunity for stakeholders to critically examine existing response arrangements, identify areas requiring improvement and strengthen collaboration among relevant institutions.

“Participants deliberated on the gaps raised by the various pillars and explored practical measures to address them, with particular emphasis on improving information flow.

‘’Also, deliberation centred on ensuring compliance with entry-point health protocols and strengthening coordination among frontline personnel.

“The discussions reinforced the need for sustained monitoring, clear communication of responsibilities and prompt reporting of suspected cases.

‘’These are to ensure that potential public health threats are detected and managed without delay,” he said.

The meeting was attended by the Permanent Secretary of the Enugu State Ministry of Health and representatives of development partners, including the World Health Organisation.

Others in attendance were officials of the University of Nigeria Teaching Hospital, Enugu State University of Science and Technology Teaching Hospital, Parklane, Port Health Services and other relevant stakeholders.

Their participation underscored the importance of a coordinated and multisectoral approach to health emergency preparedness and response. 

(NAN)