The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) is set to adopt a “one health” approach to fight infectious diseases like Ebola, Lassa fever, Yellow fever and avian influenza.
One health approach involves multi-sector coordination – human, animal and environmental health – in combating epidemics.
The approach is promoted by the World Health Organisation (WHO), but it has not been formalised in West Africa.
Nigeria recorded cases of Ebola in 2014. There was also an outbreak of Lassa fever in 2016.
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Health experts from West Africa have been holding meetings in Abuja since Monday to address the health challenges of the region.
The meeting is expected to come to a head on Friday when health ministers from the region will meet to harmonise and adopt resolutions.
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