By Oluwakemi Kindness
The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) says Nigeria currently has no confirmed case of Ebola Virus Disease (EVD), but has stepped up surveillance following a new outbreak in parts of Africa.
The outbreak, which has led to deaths in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and a reported imported case in Uganda, has raised regional concern.
In a statement on Sunday by its Director-General, Jide Idris, the agency says it is strengthening laboratory readiness, infection prevention, and public awareness across the country.
The World Health Organization (WHO) has declared the outbreak a “public health emergency of international concern,” noting that it involves the rare Bundibugyo strain of Ebola, which currently has no approved vaccine or treatment.
Health authorities report that the outbreak has resulted in hundreds of suspected cases in eastern DRC, with infections also detected in Uganda and the capital, Kinshasa.
Despite the rising cases, the WHO said the situation does not yet meet the criteria for a pandemic and advised countries not to close borders or restrict trade.
In Nigeria, the NCDC says it is working closely with Port Health Services and other agencies to strengthen preparedness, especially at points of entry.
The agency described Ebola as a severe viral disease transmitted through direct contact with infected bodily fluids, contaminated materials, or infected animals.
It also noted that symptoms include fever, weakness, headache, vomiting, diarrhoea, and in severe cases, unexplained bleeding, with an incubation period of 2 to 21 days.
Health workers have been urged to maintain a high level of alertness, ensure early detection, isolation of suspected cases, and strict infection prevention measures, including proper use of protective equipment and hygiene practices.
The NCDC further advised Nigerians to remain calm, avoid misinformation, maintain good hygiene, and report any unusual illnesses promptly.
Nigeria, however, remains notable for successfully containing the 2014 Ebola outbreak, which was introduced through a traveller arriving in Lagos from Liberia.
