The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) has reassured the public that there is currently no confirmed case of Ebola Virus Disease (EVD) in Nigeria, even as the disease continues to spread in parts of Africa. This assurance comes in response to an ongoing outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo and a recently confirmed imported case in Uganda linked to that outbreak.
Official Statement from NCDC Director-General
Director-General of the NCDC, Jide Idris, issued a public health advisory on Sunday emphasizing that Nigeria remains free of Ebola. “Nigeria currently has no confirmed case of Ebola Virus Disease,” Idris stated. He added that the agency has ramped up surveillance and preparedness measures nationwide to address the evolving situation in neighboring African countries.
Regional Response and International Support
According to Idris, health authorities in the affected countries, with support from international partners, have activated emergency response mechanisms. These include enhanced surveillance, laboratory testing, contact tracing, infection prevention and control measures, case management, and risk communication efforts. The NCDC is closely monitoring the situation due to increased regional movement across Africa.
Collaboration and Preparedness
The NCDC is collaborating with relevant agencies, including Port Health Services under the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, to strengthen Nigeria’s public health preparedness. “NCDC is closely monitoring the situation and working with relevant stakeholders, including the Port Health Services, to ensure continued vigilance and preparedness within the public health system,” Idris said.
Public Advisory
The NCDC urged Nigerians to remain calm and avoid spreading misinformation about Ebola. The agency also advised the public to maintain preventive measures such as regular hand hygiene, avoiding contact with bodily fluids of sick persons, and promptly reporting unusual illnesses to health facilities.
