LAGOS, Nigeria(VOICE OF NAIJA)- The Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA) has directed healthcare facilities and medical waste handlers across the state to strengthen infection prevention measures in a move aimed at protecting residents from potential public health threats.
Following an Ebola outbreak reported in parts of East Africa, LAWMA’s Managing Director, Dr. Muyiwa Gbadegesin described the measure as a proactive response to the recent Ebola Virus Disease (EVD) outbreak reported in parts of East Africa.
According to him, there is currently no confirmed case of Ebola in Lagos State or anywhere in Nigeria.
However, authorities are taking preventive steps to ensure the state remains prepared against any possible health emergency.
Gbadegesin explained that the directive is designed to reinforce existing disease prevention systems and ensure strict compliance with infection control and medical waste management standards.
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“Although there is currently no confirmed case of Ebola in Lagos or Nigeria, preparedness remains one of the most effective tools in disease prevention,” the Director said.
He stressed that effective medical waste management plays a critical role in preventing the spread of infectious diseases and safeguarding healthcare workers, patients, waste handlers, and the wider public.
Consequently, LAWMA urged hospitals, clinics, laboratories, and licensed medical waste operators to strengthen infection prevention and control practices.
The agency also called for strict adherence to approved procedures for handling, transporting, and disposing of medical waste.
Furthermore, healthcare institutions were advised to reinforce hand hygiene practices, ensure proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE), safely manage medical specimens, and maintain effective environmental decontamination measures.
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The agency also emphasized the importance of separating infectious waste at the point of generation to reduce the risk of contamination and disease transmission.
Waste handlers and transport operators were equally directed to comply with approved collection and disposal guidelines while consistently using appropriate protective gear during their operations.
LAWMA further stated that it would continue monitoring compliance levels across the state while working closely with stakeholders to maintain high public health and environmental safety standards.
The agency also encouraged healthcare institutions to review their emergency preparedness plans, remain vigilant, and promptly report any suspected public health concerns through the appropriate channels.
Gbadegesin reassured residents that Lagos remains on alert and has sustained surveillance, preparedness, and response mechanisms to guard against infectious disease outbreaks.
To support a safer public health environment, training programmes, public sensitization campaigns, and compliance initiatives will continue across the state to strengthen protection for residents.
