Ebola: Benin activates pre-alert after case in Nigeria
By the AFREEQUE newsroom, based on 24haubenin
Benin has activated a pre-alert phase after an imported case of Ebola was confirmed in Abuja, Nigeria, in a traveller from Uganda. Health Minister Benjamin Hounkpatin inspected thermal cameras and isolation rooms for suspected cases at Cotonou airport, reports 24haubenin.
Benin has activated a health pre-alert phase after confirmation in Abuja on 20 October of an imported case of Ebola virus disease, of the Bundibugyo strain, in a traveller from Uganda. No cases have been reported in Benin, according to the Beninese Ministry of Health, cited by 24haubenin.
Health Minister Benjamin Hounkpatin visited Cotonou airport on Wednesday 21 October to assess arrangements for detecting travellers with possible symptoms. These include thermal cameras in the arrivals hall and isolation rooms for suspected cases, while facilities are planned for the new hall under construction, according to 24haubenin.
The ministry has also activated the technical committees of the multisectoral “One Health” platform, which brings together the relevant services and their partners on surveillance, treatment and preparedness for possible spread. The proximity of Nigeria and the volume of exchanges between the two countries prompted the strengthening of the system, according to 24haubenin.
The authorities recommend regular handwashing, avoiding contact with the bodily fluids of a sick person and not handling bodies of people who have died in unexplained circumstances. They stress that Ebola virus is not transmitted through the air, according to 24haubenin.
Summary produced with the help of artificial intelligence tools, under AFREEQUE’s editorial responsibility.
