No Ebola Cases in Nigeria, But Risk Remains High — NCDC Warns

The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) has assured Nigerians that no confirmed cases of Ebola have been detected in the country, even as it continues to monitor the ongoing outbreak in parts of Central and East Africa.

According to the agency, Nigeria remains on high alert following the outbreak in the Democratic Republic of the Congo and a confirmed imported case in Uganda that has been linked to the same outbreak.

Health authorities in both countries have activated emergency measures, including enhanced surveillance, contact tracing, laboratory testing, and infection prevention and control efforts, aimed at containing the spread of the virus.

Officials say these measures are critical to preventing further transmission, particularly as cases continue to emerge in new location.

The NCDC stated that it is working closely with port health services and state governments to strengthen Nigeria’s preparedness and response systems. This includes monitoring points of entry, improving rapid response capacity, and reinforcing public health communication across the country.

The agency emphasized that early detection and rapid reporting remain key to preventing any potential outbreak within Nigeria.

Ebola virus disease is transmitted through direct contact with the blood or bodily fluids of infected individuals or contaminated materials. Symptoms typically appear between 2 and 21 days after exposure and include fever, weakness, vomiting, and in severe cases, internal or external bleeding.

The NCDC has advised Nigerians to remain calm but vigilant, maintain proper hand hygiene, avoid contact with sick individuals, and refrain from handling or consuming bushmeat. It also urged the public to report any unusual illnesses promptly to the nearest health facility.

Authorities stress that public awareness and early response are crucial in preventing the spread of the disease.