Medical laboratory scientists in Kaduna State have called on political parties to consider taking their campaigns online ahead of the 2027 elections as Nigeria responds to an Ebola case.
The appeal was made by the Kaduna State Chairman of the Association of Medical Laboratory Scientists of Nigeria (AMLSN), Turman Benjamin, during an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Thursday.
Benjamin encouraged political parties to explore digital platforms to engage voters rather than rely heavily on large physical gatherings. He suggested social media, phone calls, text messages and online meetings as possible alternatives.
He said reducing face-to-face interactions could help limit potential exposure to the virus while efforts to contain the outbreak continue.
Beyond political campaigns, Benjamin urged the Kaduna State Government to step up public education on Ebola, identify people who may have been exposed to the confirmed case and ensure that medical personnel have the necessary protective equipment.
He also advised Nigerians to limit avoidable physical contact, including handshakes and hugs, and maintain good personal hygiene.
The association’s chairman explained that the virus can spread through direct contact with the blood and other bodily fluids of an infected person. He warned members of the public against handling the bodies of suspected or confirmed victims without proper training and protective gear.
He stressed that only qualified personnel equipped with the necessary safety materials should handle such bodies during burial preparations.
Benjamin further called for improved safety measures in hospitals, including the provision of gloves and other protective materials for healthcare workers.
He noted that laboratory tests are important in detecting Ebola because its initial symptoms may resemble common illnesses such as malaria and typhoid fever.
The scientist also cautioned Nigerians about handling and consuming wild animals that could carry infectious diseases.
He urged media organisations to intensify public enlightenment on the signs of Ebola, how it spreads and the need to seek medical care promptly when symptoms appear.
Benjamin added that healthcare workers and residents must remain alert, stressing that early diagnosis and strict infection prevention practices are important in preventing further transmission.
Meanwhile, the Federal Government has confirmed an Ebola case in Abuja, with 44 people who had close contact with the patient identified for monitoring, according to reports.
The patient, a woman who recently travelled from Uganda to Nigeria on an international flight, was reportedly treated at a private hospital in the Federal Capital Territory for several days before the infection was confirmed.
She has been placed in isolation and is receiving treatment, while health officials are working to identify and monitor others who may have been exposed to the virus.