🇳🇬NigeriaWest Africa
Nigerian health experts advocate for stronger disease surveillance to combat outbreaks
via Punch Nigeria3 min read
Public health experts, including epidemiologists, researchers, policymakers, and development partners from Nigeria, have called for enhanced disease surveillance to address public health threats. This appeal was made during the 12th Annual National Conference of the Epidemiological Society of Nigeria in Calabar, Cross River State. Dr. Matthew Ashikeni, National President of the Epidemiological Society of Nigeria, emphasized the need for robust surveillance systems to enable early detection and rapid response to outbreaks. He stated that effective epidemiological resilience requires strong surveillance, improved sanitation and hygiene, continuous capacity building for health professionals, and evidence-based health policies. Governor Bassey Otu, represented by Commissioner for Health Dr. Henry Ayuk, highlighted Cross River State's commitment to healthcare through investments in primary healthcare, disease surveillance, and health insurance. Dr. Vivian Otu, Director General of Cross River State Primary Healthcare, underscored the importance of resilient health systems. Dr. Rebecca Olatunde of the World Health Organization urged health experts to continue advocating for disease surveillance to tackle public health challenges.
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This summary was AI-generated from a story originally published by Punch Nigeria.
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