LASU Issues Public Health Advisory on Ebola Virus Disease, Urges Preventive Measures

Lagos State University (LASU), through its Health Services, has alerted members of the university community to the importance of staying informed about Ebola Virus Disease (EVD) and observing recommended preventive measures.

Ebola is a serious viral disease transmitted through direct contact with the blood or other body fluids of an infected person who has developed symptoms, contaminated objects or infected animals. The virus is not transmitted through the air under ordinary circumstances.

The university outlined the following symptoms to watch out for. They may develop between 2 and 21 days after exposure:

• Fever and severe weakness.
• Headache and muscle pain.
• Sore throat.
• Vomiting and diarrhoea.
• Abdominal pain.
• Unexplained bleeding in some cases.

To reduce the risk of infection, members of the university community have been advised to observe the following preventive measures:

• Wash hands regularly with soap and running water.
• Avoid direct contact with the blood and other body fluids of persons suspected of having Ebola.
• Avoid handling or consuming wild animals that may carry the virus.
• Avoid direct contact with the bodies of persons suspected of having died from Ebola.
• Seek prompt medical attention following suspected exposure or the onset of compatible symptoms.

The university further advised anyone who suspects exposure to Ebola or develops compatible symptoms following possible exposure to seek immediate medical attention and inform healthcare personnel about the circumstances.

For assistance, the following emergency contacts have been provided:

• LASU Health Services: 09043730008
• Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) toll-free line: 6232

Members of the university community were encouraged to remain calm, rely on verified public health information and comply with recommended preventive measures.

The advisory emphasised that prevention begins with awareness, urging everyone to protect themselves and others.