The Lagos State Commissioner for Health, Prof. Akin Abayomi, has issued a public statement urging residents to remain calm but vigilant following the confirmation of an imported case of Ebola Bundibugyo virus disease in Abuja. The announcement comes as Nigeria's health authorities, led by Health Minister Prof. Muhammad Ali Pate, reported that 44 close contacts of the patient have been identified, with contact tracing already underway.
Lagos Commissioner Urges Calm and Vigilance
In a statement released via his X handle on Wednesday, October 21, 2026, @ProfAkinAbayomi, the commissioner emphasized that Lagos State has continued to strengthen its capacity to prevent, detect, and respond to outbreaks involving high-priority pathogens. He asked the public to rely solely on verified health information and avoid spreading unconfirmed reports.
Abayomi's guidance comes after the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) confirmed the Ebola disease case in the Federal Capital Territory on the same day. The Federal Government has since activated surveillance and response efforts through the NCDC and other relevant health authorities to contain any potential spread.
Early Symptoms Mimic Malaria, Says Commissioner
The commissioner warned that early symptoms of Ebola can closely resemble those of malaria and other common viral illnesses, making prompt testing and medical assessment critical. Under Lagos State health policy, anyone presenting with a fever must first undergo a rapid diagnostic test for malaria before using any antimalarial medication. If the test result is negative, a healthcare professional should then evaluate other potential causes.
Abayomi noted that this approach is designed to support timely diagnosis and prevent complications arising from untreated conditions. He also called on residents to practice regular hand hygiene and avoid contact with the body fluids of anyone who is sick, particularly individuals who have recently traveled from areas where Ebola transmission is ongoing.
What to Do If You Suspect Exposure
The commissioner provided clear instructions for residents who suspect they may have been exposed to Ebola. He advised them to contact public health authorities for guidance before going to a hospital or clinic, stressing that early detection and prompt reporting are key to saving lives and containing any potential spread.
For other health concerns, residents were advised to reach the Lagos State emergency lines or visit the nearest primary healthcare center. Abayomi emphasized that the state's health system remains prepared to handle such situations, but public cooperation is essential.
Earlier reports from Legit.ng indicated that Nigerians have raised concerns online about delayed detection and the absence of information regarding the patient's travel history from the Democratic Republic of Congo. The NCDC and health authorities have not yet released additional details about the patient's movements or the specific timeline of exposure.
