The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) has issued a nationwide alert following reports of a fresh Ebola virus outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).
In a statement released earlier today, the NCDC urged Nigerians to remain calm, stressing that no cases have been recorded within Nigeria. The agency assured the public that it is closely monitoring the situation and has already activated surveillance mechanisms at the nation’s borders and health facilities.
“We are in touch with our counterparts in the DRC and the World Health Organization (WHO). At the moment, Nigeria has not detected any case of Ebola. However, we must not be complacent. Heightened vigilance at points of entry and health facilities nationwide is ongoing,” the statement read.
The Ebola virus, known for its high fatality rate and rapid spread through direct human contact, has previously posed serious threats across West and Central Africa. Nigeria successfully contained the disease in 2014, following the introduction of an imported case in Lagos, which resulted in eight deaths but was curtailed through swift public health action.
The NCDC is now emphasizing preventive measures, including:
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Maintaining strict personal hygiene such as frequent handwashing.
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Avoiding unnecessary contact with bodily fluids of sick individuals.
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Promptly reporting suspected cases of fever with unusual symptoms to health authorities.
Public health experts warn that while Nigeria has the experience and infrastructure to respond, international travel and porous borders make vigilance crucial. The agency has also called on state health ministries and hospitals to remain on high alert.
As of now, global health bodies are working with the DRC to contain the outbreak, and Nigeria remains Ebola-free.