Ekiti sets up emergency health committee to tackle cholera, Lassa fever

Ekiti State in Nigeria has launched a Public Health Emergency Operations Centre Steering Committee to enhance its capacity to respond to disease outbreaks and other public health emergencies. The committee's formation is a proactive measure to strengthen health security and improve preparedness, particularly in light of recent challenges like the COVID-19 pandemic and recurring outbreaks of cholera, Lassa fever, and measles.

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The establishment and strengthening of the Public Health Emergency Operations Centre represented a strategic investment in the health, safety and resilience of the people of the state.

Dr. Oyebanji Filani, the Commissioner for Health and Human Services and chair of the committee, emphasized that establishing and strengthening the operations center is a strategic investment in the health, safety, and resilience of the state's residents. The committee is tasked with providing crucial strategic direction, policy guidance, oversight, and high-level coordination to ensure the center functions effectively. This move underscores the state government's commitment to safeguarding public health.

The inauguration of the committee aligns with Governor Biodun Oyebanji's pledge to bolster the state's healthcare infrastructure. The government intends to continue investing in robust surveillance systems, developing a skilled healthcare workforce, strengthening laboratory capabilities, improving risk communication, and refining emergency coordination mechanisms. "Preparedness is more cost-effective and impactful than emergency response," Filani stated, highlighting the proactive approach.

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Preparedness is more cost-effective and impactful than emergency response.

Officials expressed confidence that the committee will foster inter-sectoral collaboration, aid in resource mobilization, ensure accountability, and promote the sustainability of emergency preparedness efforts across Ekiti State. The Public Health Emergency Operations Centre will serve as a central hub for preparedness, coordination, rapid response, and resource mobilization during health crises, aiming to build a resilient system capable of protecting residents from various public health threats.

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The centre provides a structured platfor