Ekiti State Government has reactivated the State Rapid Response Team on Communicable Diseases as part of proactive measures to prevent the spread of the dreaded Cerebro Spinal Meningitis (CSM), which has ravaged some parts of the country, to the State.
The State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Olurotimi Ojo who has made this known in Ado Ekiti assured that, though the State is free of the disease, government has however adopted a three pronged-approach of prevention, early detection and ensuring availability of vaccine in event of an outbreak to combat the scourge.
Dr. Ojo said that the State Government has embarked on massive public enlightenment campaign to sensitize people in the state on the symptoms and how to prevent the killer disease.
Noting that the disease is associated with overcrowding, particularly in the prevailing hot weather, the Commissioner stressed the need for the people to ensure that their homes are well ventilated as well as observe a high standard of personal and environmental hygiene while overcrowded areas must be avoided.
He emphasized the importance of promptly seeking medical attention in certified Health facilities immediately people feel sick, adding that there should be more conscious efforts towards ensuring proper disposal of respiratory and throat secretions such as spit and phlegm. .
The Commissioner highlighted symptoms of the disease to include high body temperature, pain and stiffness of the neck, headache, vomiting, fear of light, restlessness, confusion and possible death if not properly managed.
He appealed to traditional rulers, religious leaders and other opinion leaders to support government’s efforts at safeguarding the lives of people in the state by ensuring a clean and healthy environment as well as persuading sick people to seek prompt medical attention when necessary.
