BY OLAPEJU OLUBI
The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) has reassured anxious Nigerians that there are no cases of the Ebola Virus Disease (EVD) in the country, following the confirmation of an outbreak of the Sudan strain of the virus in Uganda.
The outbreak, which was officially declared on January 30, 2025, has so far resulted in one confirmed case and one fatality in Uganda’s Wakiso, Mukono and Mbale districts.
The Director General of the NCDC, Dr. Jide Idris, stated that while the risk of an Ebola outbreak in Nigeria is currently classified as moderate, the agency is not taking any chances.
“We have activated heightened surveillance measures, particularly at points of entry, updated our Ebola contingency plan, and optimized our diagnostic capacity. We are closely monitoring developments in Uganda and will continue to provide timely updates,” he said.
In collaboration with relevant ministries, departments, agencies, and international partners, the NCDC has strengthened its preparedness through the National Emerging Viral Hemorrhagic Diseases (EVHD) Technical Working Group.
Some of the key measures in place include: Enhanced surveillance at Nigeria’s airports, seaports, and land borders; Capacity strengthening of designated laboratories for EVD testing; Emergency response plans to rapidly detect and contain potential cases; Mobilisation of healthcare workers to remain on high alert
While Nigeria successfully managed the 2014 Ebola outbreak, the NCDC stresses that early detection, proper isolation, and rigorous infection control measures remain critical to preventing any possible resurgence.
Ebola is a severe viral illness that causes hemorrhagic fever, multiple organ failure, and, in many cases, death.
The Sudan strain, which is responsible for the Uganda outbreak, is distinct from the Zaire strain—the deadliest of all five known Ebola species.
Unlike the Zaire strain, there is currently no approved vaccine for the Sudan strain, making outbreak containment even more crucial.
According to the NCDV, the virus spreads through: Direct contact with bodily fluids (blood, saliva, vomit, urine, feces, sweat, breast milk, and semen) of infected individuals; Handling infected animals, such as fruit bats, chimpanzees, gorillas, monkeys, and antelope; Contaminated surfaces or objects touched by an infected person; Unsafe burial practices, where individuals come into contact with the body of a deceased Ebola patient.
The early symptoms of Ebola can be mistaken for other illnesses, such as malaria or typhoid. They include: Sudden high fever; Severe headache and muscle pain; Weakness and fatigue; Vomiting and diarrhea; Jaundice (yellowing of the eyes)
In severe cases, uncontrolled bleeding, kidney and liver failure, central nervous system impairment, and shock can occur, leading to death within 8-9 days of symptom onset.
Dr. Idris urged Nigerians to remain calm but vigilant, emphasizing that prevention is key.
“We urge the public to practice good hygiene, avoid bushmeat consumption, and report any suspicious symptoms, particularly in individuals with a recent travel history to affected areas,” he stated.
The NCDC has also issued strict guidelines for healthcare workers, urging them to:Maintain a high index of suspicion for Ebola in patients presenting with fever and unexplained bleeding; Isolate suspected cases immediately and adhere to infection prevention protocols; Use full personal protective equipment (PPE) when handling suspected cases; Report suspected cases promptly to the NCDC or State Ministries of Health.
While the World Health Organization (WHO) has not issued any travel restrictions to Uganda, the NCDC advises Nigerians to avoid all but essential travel to countries currently battling the virus.
Those who have traveled to affected areas within the last 21 days and are experiencing symptoms should Call 6232 or their State Ministry of Health hotline immediately.
