Surveillance systems critical to containing disease outbreaks

From Aniekan Aniekan, Calabar

Nigeria’s ability to stop the next epidemic before it spreads hinges on how fast it can detect it with robust surveillance systems and not the absence of drugs or vaccines.

National President, Epidemiological Society of Nigeria (EPISON), Dr. Matthew Ashikeni, disclosed this in Calabar during the annual general meeting of the society.

The conference with the theme:  “Strengthening Epidemiological Resilience in Nigeria: Addressing Emerging and Re-emerging Health Challenges” attracted epidemiologists across the country.

Ashikeni told participants “Nigeria cannot fight outbreaks without robust surveillance systems. “Early detection and rapid response help to curb outbreaks of such diseases. We need consistent monitoring, improved sanitation, continuous training for health workers, and evidence-based policies.”

Governor Bassey Otu, represented by Commissioner for Health, Dr. Henry Egbe Ayuk, said his administration prioritizes disease surveillance alongside primary healthcare, immunization, and health insurance.

“Governor Otu has placed healthcare at the forefront of development through sustained investments in primary healthcare, disease surveillance, health insurance coverage, immunization programmes, and infrastructure,” Ayuk said.

He added that Cross River is among few states successfully delivering vaccines and essential medicines to hard-to-reach communities, a key test of any surveillance system.

Director General, Cross-River State Primary Healthcare, Vivian Mesembe, said resilience means systems must detect threats fast and Cross River demonstrates resilience through routine surveillance and prompt investigation.