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Following the confirmation of an Ebola Bundibugyo virus disease case in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), the Healthcare Federation of Nigeria (HFN) encourages private healthcare facilities across the country to remain vigilant, strengthen their preparedness measures and work closely with public health authorities to support ongoing efforts to contain the infection.
HFN commends the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC), FCT health authorities and their partners for the response measures underway. As these efforts continue, preparedness across all levels of the health system remains important in protecting patients, healthcare workers and the wider public.
Private hospitals and clinics are encouraged to review their preparedness arrangements, ensure that frontline personnel are familiar with current public health guidance, and maintain strict infection prevention and control practices. Early recognition, prompt reporting and adherence to established procedures for the safe identification, isolation and referral of suspected cases are essential to an effective response.
Healthcare facilities should also ensure that staff understand the appropriate reporting channels and referral procedures, and seek guidance from the relevant public health authorities whenever concerns arise. These measures can support early action while minimising the risk of exposure to other patients and healthcare workers.
HFN encourages healthcare providers and the public to remain calm, rely on verified information from the NCDC and other authorised public health authorities, and avoid speculation or the stigmatisation of affected individuals.
Through its recent Memorandum of Cooperation (MoC) with NCDC and PharmAccess to strengthen private-sector disease surveillance, HFN will support government efforts by facilitating engagement with private healthcare providers and promoting stronger integration of private-sector facilities into the national disease surveillance system.
Healthcare providers and members of the public who require guidance or need to report a suspected case can contact the NCDC through its toll-free line on 6232.
