By Nkiru Anakor
The Chief Medical Director(CMD) of Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University Teaching Hospital (COOUTH), Amaku, Awka, Dr. Maureen Uche Umeakuewulu, has inaugurated a seven member committee to strengthen the hospital’s Ebola preparedness, infection prevention and public health awareness across Anambra State and its environs.
The committee was inaugurated on Oct. 22, the hospital’s 50th Management Meeting, following reports of a suspected Ebola case in Abuja, the Federal Capital Territory.
Inaugurating the committee, Dr. Umeakuewulu tasked members to take proactive measures to prevent the possible introduction and spread of the disease, stressing the need for coordinated action within the hospital and surrounding communities.
She highlighted the importance of functional handwashing facilities, adequate hand sanitiser supplies, appropriate use of personal protective equipment and strict adherence to infection prevention and control protocols across all hospital service points.
The CMD directed the committee to organise regular training and sensitisation programmes for healthcare workers, strengthen surveillance and early detection systems, and collaborate with relevant public health authorities to ensure prompt reporting and effective management of suspected cases.
Beyond the hospital, the committee is expected to develop and implement public health education and community sensitisation programmes to promote awareness of Ebola, encourage preventive practices and facilitate early reporting of suspected cases.
Dr. Umeakuewulu said the initiative aligns with the vision of Anambra State Governor, Professor Chukwuma Soludo, for a healthier state, underscoring the importance of preparedness and coordinated action in responding to emerging infectious disease threats.
The committee is chaired by the Chairman of the Medical Advisory Committee, Dr. Chima Christian Ibeneme.
Other members are Professor Chinyerem Nwachukwu, Consultant Community Medicine Physician and Head of the Department of Community Medicine; Dr. Charles Okechukwu Ugwunze, Consultant Pulmonologist and Head of the Department of Internal Medicine; Dr. Afam Anameje, Head of the Department of Family Medicine; Dr. Innocent Umeakunne, Head of the Accident and Emergency Department; Mrs. Angela Nebo, Head of Nursing Services; and Mrs. Lovelyn Ezeakunne, Public Relations Officer.
The committee is expected to assess existing preparedness measures, identify operational gaps, strengthen infection prevention and control systems, establish clear surveillance and rapid response protocols, coordinate referral and laboratory arrangements, and develop an effective communication strategy for the hospital and surrounding communities.
The initiative reinforces COOUTH’s commitment to safeguarding patients, protecting healthcare workers and strengthening community awareness as part of efforts to prevent and respond effectively to infectious disease outbreaks.
The hospital urged healthcare professionals and members of the public to remain vigilant, observe appropriate preventive measures and promptly report suspected cases to the relevant health authorities.
Nkiru Anakor
Ministry of Information and Value Reformation, Anambra State
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