By Trade FM News
Nutritionist Dr. Olafusi Mariam has urged food vendors, market traders and consumers to strengthen food safety and hygiene practices amid concerns over Ebola, warning Nigerians against relying on unverified remedies and nutrition claims to prevent infection.
Speaking during an interview on Trade FM, Dr. Olafusi emphasised that although balanced nutrition supports normal immune system function, eating well does not make anyone immune to Ebola or prevent infection following exposure to the virus.
She advised Nigerians to maintain a balanced diet comprising affordable local foods such as beans, moi moi, eggs, fish, groundnuts, vegetables, fruits, rice, yam and potatoes, noting that a variety of foods provides essential nutrients for overall health.
The nutritionist, however, stressed that no particular food, herbal preparation or supplement has been established as a means of preventing or curing Ebola, adding that supplements should only be used when necessary and with professional guidance.
On food safety, Dr. Olafusi encouraged consumers to patronise vendors who maintain clean surroundings, use safe water and utensils, and protect prepared meals from contamination.
She also advised food handlers to separate raw and cooked foods during preparation, cook animal products thoroughly, and ensure fruits and vegetables are properly washed and stored.
According to her, proper handwashing with soap and clean running water for at least 20 seconds remains an important hygiene measure, particularly before handling food, after using the toilet and after returning from public places.
Dr. Olafusi further cautioned Nigerians against handling sick or dead wild animals, explaining that contact with infected animals, their blood and other body fluids can expose humans to dangerous infections.
She noted that the risks associated with wild animals extend beyond consumption to handling, slaughtering and preparing potentially infected animals.
The nutritionist also clarified that Ebola is not generally transmitted simply by sitting beside an infected person or sharing a meal. However, direct contact with infected body fluids or objects contaminated by those fluids can spread the virus.
She therefore advised households to maintain proper hygiene, wash utensils thoroughly and avoid sharing personal items that may be contaminated, particularly when someone is unwell or infection is suspected.
Dr. Olafusi called for stronger collaboration among schools, religious organisations, community leaders, food vendors and public health authorities to improve public awareness and discourage the spread of misinformation.
She warned that unverified claims circulating on WhatsApp and other social media platforms could create unnecessary panic and cause people to delay appropriate medical care.
The nutritionist urged Nigerians to rely on verified information from the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC), the Ministry of Health and the World Health Organisation (WHO).
She also advised anyone who suspects exposure to Ebola to contact the appropriate health authorities promptly and follow official instructions rather than attempting to manage the situation with home remedies.
Dr. Olafusi stressed that maintaining public health requires a combination of safe food handling, good personal hygiene, balanced nutrition, responsible information sharing and timely medical intervention.
She urged Nigerians to remain calm, avoid unnecessary panic and continue their daily activities while following official public health guidance and recommended precautions.
