Following Nigeria’s confirmation of an imported case of Ebola Bundibugyo virus disease, leading virologists have asserted that healthcare workers must maintain a high index of suspicion for Ebola, especially in patients with a recent travel history to Ebola-hit areas and presenting with fever of unknown origin.
The experts stressed the need for prompt patient assessment, careful review of travel and exposure histories, laboratory testing, effective contact tracing and isolation of confirmed cases to prevent further transmission.
They said early recognition of suspected cases was important, as patients could initially present with symptoms resembling other common illnesses, including malaria.
In exclusive interviews with PUNCH Healthwise, the virologists urged hospitals to strengthen screening and triage at their emergency and outpatient departments, while warning against indiscriminate quarantine measures across healthcare facilities.
They also called for adequate personal protective equipment for frontline health workers, regular handwashing and sustained surveillance of people who had contact
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