Swift Action Contained Suspected Ebola Scare In Abuja -NCDC
Nigeria narrowly avoided public panic this week after two suspected Ebola cases in Abuja were swiftly contained, the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) has confirmed.
Both patients tested negative for Ebola and Marburg viruses, though samples are being screened for other haemorrhagic fevers such as Lassa and Dengue.
The latest case involved a traveller returning from Kigali who immediately reported to hospital after falling ill.
His quick action, combined with the vigilance of clinicians at Nisa Premier Hospital, triggered a rapid response system that minimised risk to the public.
“We commend the traveller and the medical team for their responsible actions,” said NCDC Director-General, Dr Jide Idris. “This is exactly how outbreaks are prevented through vigilance, early reporting, and collaboration.”
The agency has since activated precautionary measures, including strengthened surveillance at points of entry, readiness of isolation facilities, and prepositioning of critical supplies nationwide.
States have been urged to keep treatment centres functional, while health workers are reminded to maintain strict infection-control measures and report unusual cases immediately.
Ebola virus disease, with a fatality rate of 25–90%, spreads primarily through contact with infected bodily fluids.
Symptoms range from fever, weakness, headache, vomiting and diarrhoea, to severe bleeding and organ failure in advanced cases.
Nigerians are advised to maintain hand hygiene, avoid contact with symptomatic persons, and seek medical help immediately if unwell after travel.
The NCDC warned against circulating rumours, stressing that misinformation undermines public health efforts.
“These events prove that the vigilance of one patient, one clinician, and the cooperation of all stakeholders can protect millions,” Dr Idris said. “Together, we can stop outbreaks before they start.”
For guidance or to report suspected cases, Nigerians can call the NCDC’s toll-free line on 6232.
