By Ameh Gabriel
The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) has reassured Nigerians that there is no cause for alarm after two suspected cases of viral hemorrhagic fever were reported in Abuja.
In a statement on Wednesday, the agency confirmed that both patients tested negative for Ebola and Marburg viruses, while additional tests are ongoing for Lassa fever and dengue.
One of the cases involved a traveler who recently returned from Kigali and immediately sought medical care at a hospital in Abuja after developing symptoms. The NCDC commended the patient for acting responsibly and praised the prompt actions of clinicians at Nisa Premier Hospital, the FCT Epidemiology Team, Port Health Services, and other partners whose coordinated response reduced any risk to the public.
NCDC Director-General, Dr. Jide Idris, said the incident underscores the importance of vigilance within Nigeria’s health system. He disclosed that the agency had already conducted a dynamic risk assessment following reports of Ebola in other countries and has intensified nationwide preparedness measures.
These measures include:
- Heightened surveillance at points of entry.
- Alerting isolation facilities across states.
- Stocking infection-prevention and control supplies.
- Ensuring laboratories remain on standby for rapid testing.
Dr. Idris urged state governments to fully support surveillance officers, maintain functional isolation centers, and allocate resources for quick response. He also reminded healthcare workers—especially in private facilities—of the need to maintain a high index of suspicion, enforce strict infection-control measures, and promptly report unusual cases through official surveillance channels.
The NCDC further issued an advisory reminding the public about Ebola virus disease, its transmission, symptoms, and the importance of early treatment. Nigerians are encouraged to:
- Practice good personal hygiene.
- Avoid unsafe contact with sick persons or animals.
- Seek medical care immediately if symptoms develop, especially after international travel.
The agency cautioned against spreading misinformation and urged Nigerians to rely only on official updates from the NCDC and authorized government sources. For reporting or inquiries, the public can reach the NCDC Connect Centre via toll-free line 6232, WhatsApp, SMS, or email.
Dr. Idris emphasized that the vigilance of one patient and the quick action of health workers can safeguard millions, reaffirming NCDC’s commitment to early detection, rapid response, and collaboration to protect the nation’s health.The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) has reassured Nigerians that there is no cause for alarm after two suspected cases of viral hemorrhagic fever were reported in Abuja.
In a statement on Wednesday, the agency confirmed that both patients tested negative for Ebola and Marburg viruses, while additional tests are ongoing for Lassa fever and dengue.
One of the cases involved a traveler who recently returned from Kigali and immediately sought medical care at a hospital in Abuja after developing symptoms. The NCDC commended the patient for acting responsibly and praised the prompt actions of clinicians at Nisa Premier Hospital, the FCT Epidemiology Team, Port Health Services, and other partners whose coordinated response reduced any risk to the public.
NCDC Director-General, Dr. Jide Idris, said the incident underscores the importance of vigilance within Nigeria’s health system. He disclosed that the agency had already conducted a dynamic risk assessment following reports of Ebola in other countries and has intensified nationwide preparedness measures.
These measures include:
- Heightened surveillance at points of entry.
- Alerting isolation facilities across states.
- Stocking infection-prevention and control supplies.
- Ensuring laboratories remain on standby for rapid testing.
Dr. Idris urged state governments to fully support surveillance officers, maintain functional isolation centers, and allocate resources for quick response. He also reminded healthcare workers—especially in private facilities—of the need to maintain a high index of suspicion, enforce strict infection-control measures, and promptly report unusual cases through official surveillance channels.
The NCDC further issued an advisory reminding the public about Ebola virus disease, its transmission, symptoms, and the importance of early treatment. Nigerians are encouraged to:
- Practice good personal hygiene.
- Avoid unsafe contact with sick persons or animals.
- Seek medical care immediately if symptoms develop, especially after international travel.
The agency cautioned against spreading misinformation and urged Nigerians to rely only on official updates from the NCDC and authorized government sources. For reporting or inquiries, the public can reach the NCDC Connect Centre via toll-free line 6232, WhatsApp, SMS, or email.
Dr. Idris emphasized that the vigilance of one patient and the quick action of health workers can safeguard millions, reaffirming NCDC’s commitment to early detection, rapid response, and collaboration to protect the nation’s health.
