RismadarVoice Reporters, May 19, 2026
The Abia State Government has urged residents to avoid contact with rodents, seek prompt medical attention whenever they experience illness as part of measures aimed at safeguarding public health.
The advisory was issued following the State Executive Council meeting held at Government House in Umuahia and presided over by Governor Alex Otti.
Speaking on the outcome of the meeting, the Commissioner for Information, Okey Kanu, reassured residents that there are currently no confirmed cases of Ebola virus, COVID-19, cholera, Lassa fever, rabies, Mpox or diphtheria in any part of the state.
He nevertheless emphasised the need for residents to remain vigilant and continue observing proper health practices to reduce potential risks associated with infectious diseases.
Kanu urged the public to maintain both personal and environmental hygiene while taking preventive measures against possible disease transmission.
He also advised residents to avoid exposure to rodents and other possible disease carriers and encouraged individuals experiencing symptoms of illness to seek immediate medical care rather than relying on self-medication.
According to him, the state government remains proactive in monitoring disease trends and responding to emerging public health concerns.
The commissioner disclosed that health authorities in the state are closely following reports of Ebola outbreaks in parts of the Democratic Republic of Congo and Uganda following alerts issued by the World Health Organisation (WHO) and the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC).
He noted that the surveillance efforts are intended to ensure early preparedness and prevent any possible spread of infectious diseases into the state.
The government reaffirmed its commitment to protecting residents through continuous monitoring and public health awareness initiatives.
