Ebola: FAAN Activates Preventive Surveillance At Airports

Following the World Health Organisation’s (WHO) declaration of the Bundibugyo ebolavirus outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and Uganda as a Public Health Emergency of International Concern, the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) has activated strict preventive protocols across all international gateways.

Just on Tuesday, the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) issued a high-alert directive to all domestic and international airlines operating in Nigeria, ordering immediate, enhanced port health surveillance at all international airports.

While there are no confirmed cases of Ebola in Nigeria, the swift response aims to block any potential cross-border transmission.

FAAN, in coordination with Port Health Services and the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC), has intensified screening protocols, with a primary focus on passengers arriving from or transiting through high-risk regions in Central and East Africa.

The agency noted that any traveller presenting with Ebola-associated symptoms such as high fever, severe headache, body weakness, or vomiting) will be immediately isolated and transferred for secondary medical assessment.

FAAN’s Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, Henry Agbebire, in a statement, reassured the travelling public and stakeholders that robust preventive measures have been implemented across all international airports in response to the recent Ebola Virus Disease (EVD) situation in parts of Central Africa.

He said, “In close collaboration with Port Health Services, the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC), and other relevant agencies, FAAN has intensified surveillance and monitoring of passengers, particularly those arriving from high-risk regions.”

Passengers are being screened for symptoms associated with Ebola, and any suspected case will be promptly isolated and subjected to secondary health checks in line with established national and international health protocols.

“Additionally, FAAN has strengthened coordination with relevant stakeholders, enhanced staff sensitisation, and reinforced emergency response procedures to ensure swift action where necessary. While there is currently no confirmed case of Ebola in Nigeria, FAAN remains vigilant and fully committed to safeguarding public health and maintaining safe airport operations.”

He advised passengers to remain calm, comply with health screening procedures, and report any symptoms to health officials.

Wole Shadare