The federal government has confirmed a case of Ebola disease in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja, and identified 44 close contacts for tracing to prevent further transmission.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, Ali Pate, Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, announced the development following laboratory confirmation of the case. According to podium Reporters, contact tracing has commenced, with public health teams already identifying and monitoring the 44 close contacts.
The confirmation has triggered immediate public health measures, with surveillance intensified and the hospital where the patient was treated receiving support to strengthen infection prevention and control. Health authorities are working to identify and monitor others who may have been exposed.
The government has urged healthcare facilities across the country to remain on high alert, directing workers to promptly identify and isolate suspected cases and report infections to public health authorities. Nigerians have been advised to remain calm while observing preventive measures, including regular handwashing and avoiding contact with the blood or body fluids of anyone suspected of having Ebola.
Podium Reporters gathered that the minister reassured the public that the country has the experience and systems required to respond to the case, stressing that preventing further transmission would require public cooperation. Investigations are ongoing, and the Presidential Task Force on Ebola Virus Disease, alongside the NCDC, will continue to provide updates.
This development comes amid an evolving regional Ebola outbreak, with Nigeria’s disease control agency previously raising concerns about the risk of importing the infection following a confirmed case in Kenya linked to an outbreak in the Democratic Republic of the Congo.
Members of the public can contact the NCDC’s toll-free call centre on 6232 for information or to report a suspected case.