Public health experts have warned Nigerians against spreading misinformation about Ebola Virus Disease (EVD), stressing that false claims can fuel panic and undermine efforts to prevent and control outbreaks.
The warning was given during a webinar organised by Orodata Science titled, “Tracking Outbreak: How Data and Facts Keep Us Safe from Ebola Rumours.”
Speaking at the event, health educator Ayomide Alebiowu described misinformation as one of the biggest threats during disease outbreaks, urging Nigerians to verify health-related information before sharing it.
“Before you forward a message, verify its authenticity from the right sources and report any misinformation,” he said.
Alebiowu advised the public to be wary of anonymous messages claiming to come from doctors, hospitals or unnamed health workers, noting that information without an identifiable source should be treated with suspicion.
He explained that Ebola is spread through direct contact with the body fluids of an infected person and is neither airborne nor transmitted by mosquitoes.
According to him, early symptoms such as fever, headache, sore throat, muscle pain and weakness can resemble malaria or typhoid, making prompt medical evaluation important.
He urged Nigerians to rely on information from recognised health organisations, including the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention and the World Health Organization.
Also speaking, registered nurse Lilian Amaka said misinformation remains a major challenge for healthcare workers, recalling how false claims during the 2014 Ebola outbreak led some people to drink excessive amounts of salt water, resulting in serious health consequences.
She urged Nigerians to avoid sharing unverified health messages and to disregard claims promoting unproven home remedies.
The experts advised Nigerians to remain vigilant without panicking, stressing that verified information, early reporting of symptoms and responsible communication remain key to preventing the spread of Ebola and other infectious diseases.
