Association calls for online rallies, stronger public awareness and improved protection for healthcare workers as the Federal Government confirms one Ebola case in Abuja and identifies 44 close contacts for monitoring.

The Association of Medical Laboratory Scientists of Nigeria (AMLSN) has urged political parties across the country, including the All Progressives Congress (APC), African Democratic Congress (ADC) and Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), to consider virtual campaigns amid concerns over a confirmed Ebola case in Abuja.

The association said political parties should explore safer alternatives to large physical gatherings to minimise person-to-person contact and reduce potential exposure as health authorities work to contain the reported outbreak.

Turman Benjamin, chairman of the association in Kaduna State, recommended the use of social media platforms, text messages, telephone calls and online meeting applications such as Zoom and Google Meet to engage voters without organising crowded rallies.

According to Benjamin, political campaigns can continue through digital platforms while public health measures are strengthened to protect citizens from potential exposure to the virus.

He stressed that political activities should not undermine efforts to safeguard public health, particularly at a time when the country is responding to a reported Ebola case.

Scientists Call for Stronger Ebola Surveillance

Beyond its appeal to political parties, the association called on the government to intensify public awareness campaigns and strengthen disease surveillance measures to prevent further transmission.

Benjamin also urged the authorities to improve contact tracing and ensure that healthcare workers have adequate personal protective equipment (PPE) to safely manage suspected or confirmed cases.

He noted that public awareness, early identification of potential cases and appropriate protection for frontline health workers are important components of an effective outbreak response.

The recommendations come as Nigeria's public health authorities face the task of monitoring individuals who may have been exposed to the virus and preventing further spread.

Abuja Case Raises Public Health Concerns

The Federal Government has reportedly confirmed one Ebola case in Abuja, with 44 close contacts identified for monitoring.

The development has renewed attention on the need for vigilance, effective public communication and strict adherence to guidance issued by health authorities.

Ebola is a serious viral disease that can spread through direct contact with the blood or other bodily fluids of an infected person who is showing symptoms, as well as contaminated objects. It is not generally spread through casual contact or simply by sharing the same airspace.

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Health authorities typically rely on early detection, isolation and appropriate care for suspected cases, contact tracing and infection-prevention measures to limit transmission.

Virtual Campaigns as a Precautionary Measure

The proposal to move political engagement online offers parties an alternative way to communicate their messages, mobilise supporters and interact with voters while reducing the need for large gatherings.

Social media broadcasts, virtual town halls, telephone outreach and digital campaign materials could help political organisations maintain public engagement without necessarily bringing thousands of supporters together in one location.

However, any decision to alter campaign activities should be guided by verified public health information and official directives from the relevant authorities.

As Nigeria continues to monitor the reported case, the association's appeal highlights the importance of balancing political participation with precautionary measures aimed at protecting public health.