The Adamawa State Government has announced plans to introduce mandatory health screening for all incoming travellers as part of efforts to strengthen disease surveillance and prevent the possible introduction and spread of Ebola Virus Disease (EVD).

The Commissioner for Health and Human Services, Chubado Mohammed Jada, disclosed this during an emergency meeting with the State Rapid Response Team at the State Infectious Disease Centre, where measures to strengthen the state’s preparedness and response to the potential Ebola threat were reviewed.

According to the commissioner, the proposed screening exercise will be coordinated by the state Ministry of Health and Human Services and cover travellers arriving through Yola International Airport, motor parks and designated arrival points along the River Benue.

Under the proposed arrangement, designated health personnel will conduct visual observations, temperature checks where appropriate and brief health assessments. Travellers will also be asked questions about their health status, recent travel history and possible contact with suspected or confirmed Ebola cases.

Individuals who exhibit concerning symptoms or meet the criteria for suspected Ebola cases will be referred for further clinical assessment and investigation in line with approved public health protocols.

Jada explained that the initiative forms part of the state’s broader strategy to strengthen early detection and prevent the potential spread of infectious diseases within Adamawa.

Other measures being implemented include the activation of the State Rapid Response Team and Emergency Operations Centre structures, intensified disease surveillance across all 21 local government areas, activation of the State Infectious Disease Centre and the commencement of statewide public sensitisation.

The government is also strengthening coordination among Emergency Operations Centre teams responsible for surveillance, case management, laboratory services, logistics and risk communication to ensure a coordinated response to any suspected case.

The participants reviewed existing preparedness arrangements and discussed strategies to improve coordination, facilitate the early identification of suspected cases and ensure timely intervention.

The state government urged travellers, transport operators, airport authorities and water transport operators to cooperate with health personnel and provide accurate information during the planned screening exercise.

Residents were also advised to remain vigilant and promptly report suspected cases to the appropriate health authorities.

Symptoms associated with Ebola may include fever, severe weakness, headache, muscle pain, sore throat, vomiting, diarrhoea and, in some cases, unexplained bleeding. However, the government noted that these symptoms are not exclusive to Ebola and require appropriate medical assessment.

The Adamawa state government reiterated its commitment to protecting public health through strengthened surveillance, emergency preparedness and collaboration with relevant health partners.

The planned screening exercise is expected to enhance the state’s capacity to identify potential public health threats early and facilitate prompt intervention.