SUNU Health Nigeria Limited has urged Nigerians, healthcare providers, corporate clients and stakeholders to remain calm and vigilant.
This came following the confirmation of an Ebola Virus Disease case in the Federal Capital Territory by the Federal Ministry of Health and the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control.
The disclosure was made in a statement by SUNU Health’s MD/CEO, Moyosore Olomola, on Wednesday following the confirmation of a case involving a Nigerian traveller who recently arrived from Uganda after visiting the virus hotspot, the Democratic Republic of the Congo.
While the contact is currently receiving appropriate medical care in isolation and contact tracing has commenced, SUNU Health acknowledges the authorities’ step to activate emergency response protocols to contain the situation and prevent further spread.
The Health Maintenance Organisation stressed that it is committed to the wellbeing of its enrollees and the wider public, while encouraging all stakeholders to adhere strictly to recommended preventive measures and rely only on verified information from official public health authorities.
Olomola said, “We will continue to monitor developments closely and share timely updates and guidance from the appropriate health authorities as the situation evolves. The safety and wellbeing of our enrollees, healthcare providers, and partners remain our highest priority.
“While there is no cause for panic, we encourage everyone to remain vigilant, adhere to recommended preventive measures, and seek prompt medical attention if symptoms develop following any suspected exposure. Nigeria has successfully contained Ebola outbreaks in the past, and we are confident in the capacity of our public health institutions to effectively manage the current situation.”
Ebola Virus Disease spreads through direct contact with the blood, body fluids, or contaminated materials of an infected person. Importantly, individuals cannot transmit the virus before symptoms appear.
SUNU Health advised members of the public to maintain proper hand hygiene by washing their hands frequently with soap and water or using alcohol-based hand sanitisers.
It noted that individuals should also avoid direct contact with blood, body fluids, or personal belongings of suspected or confirmed cases.
The firm further encouraged the public to remain alert for symptoms such as fever, severe weakness, headache, vomiting, and diarrhoea, particularly following any possible exposure.
The firm also advises anyone who suspects exposure to promptly notify public health authorities, cooperate fully with contact tracing efforts, and seek appropriate medical attention.
“Members of the public are also advised to avoid spreading unverified information and rely solely on updates provided by the Federal Ministry of Health and the NCDC. Suspected cases or concerns can be reported through the NCDC toll-free line, 6232.
“For health-related enquiries, enrollees may contact SUNU Health through its customer service line on 020-1330-2870 or visit the nearest accredited healthcare provider within its network,” the statement added.
According to the firm, Nigerians can collectively protect communities and support national efforts to prevent Ebola through vigilance, responsible behaviour and strict adherence to public health guidelines.