Dr Omede Ogu, the Officer-in-Charge of Port Health Services (PHS) at Murtala Muhammed International Airport, reassured the public on Friday that proactive measures have been implemented to prevent the new COVID-19 variant from entering the country. In an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Lagos, Ogu highlighted the steps taken to address the situation.
The new COVID-19 variant, BA.2.86, was first detected in the United Kingdom on August 18 and has also been identified in Israel, Denmark, and the US. The UK Health Security Agency noted that there was a confirmed case in the UK with no recent travel history, suggesting potential community transmission within the UK.
Given the significant volume of travelers between Nigeria and the UK, Ogu emphasized that information about the new variant had been disseminated through the Port Health Services Emergency Platform. He also confirmed that other agencies at the airport had been informed and were on high alert.
Ogu stressed that the primary focus of Port Health Services is health safety and security at the point of entry, covering both routine and emergency situations. He assured that emergency response facilities, including ambulances and clinics around the tarmac, are well-equipped to handle any potential emergencies.
Personnel receive regular training, including Weekly Pretentious Infection Training, to ensure their preparedness in handling various emergency scenarios. Ogu highlighted the collaborative efforts of Port Health Services with Emergency Operation Centres (EOCs) across the country, involving stakeholders who discuss strategies and containment mechanisms for emergencies.
He also explained the screening process for incoming passengers, mentioning the various instruments utilized, such as handheld thermometers, tripod tarmac scanners, and distant tarmac cameras. Ogu noted that the distant tarmac camera is the most effective, capturing health information and displaying results to port health officials.
