Ebola:​‌⁠​‍‌‍⁠⁠‍‌​‍​‍‍‌⁠‌​ NOA warns against self-medication

National Orientation Agency. Photo: NOA

The National Orientation Agency (NOA), Kaduna State Directorate, has cautioned residents of Kaduna against self–medication following the confirmation of a case of Ebola Virus Disease (EVD) in Abuja.

The NOA State Director, Mr Danjuma Makama, gave the advice in a statement made available to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Thursday by Linda Michael, Head of Communication and Media, NOA Kaduna State Directorate.

Makama cautioned against concealing symptoms or self-medicating, urging anyone with suspected symptoms to report immediately to the nearest health facility.

He also advised residents to contact the Kaduna State Emergency Disease Surveillance Lines at 08036045755 and 07031992126 for guidance and to cooperate fully with health workers during screening, surveillance, and contact tracing.

“Public safety depends on accurate information and responsible action. By staying informed and cooperating with health authorities, we can protect ourselves, our families, and our communities,” Makama stated.

The agency urged residents to rely on verified information from relevant health authorities and avoid actions that could undermine efforts to prevent the spread of the disease.

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The agency also advised residents to observe preventive measures, recognise possible symptoms and promptly report suspected cases to health authorities.

The NAN reports that Ebola is a severe illness that can be fatal and spreads through direct contact with the blood, body fluids or tissues of infected persons or animals.

The disease can also spread through contact with contaminated surfaces and materials, making personal hygiene and avoidance of exposure essential preventive measures.

Its symptoms include sudden fever, severe headache, muscle and joint pain, weakness, fatigue and sore throat.

Other symptoms include vomiting, diarrhoea, unexplained bleeding and bruising.