Every second brings Nigerians closer to exercising their democratic right and shaping the future of our nation.
Exercise your democratic right responsibly, peacefully and lawfully.
The Federal Government and state governments have intensified measures to prevent the spread of Ebola following reports that a diplomat diagnosed with the virus in Abuja has developed multiple organ failure.
The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) disclosed that the patient was infected with the Bundibugyo strain of Ebola, a rare variant associated with the ongoing outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo. The development has heightened concerns among health authorities, prompting increased surveillance and emergency preparedness across the country.
Olajumoke Babatunde, Director of Public Health Laboratory Services at the NCDC, confirmed the strain during an emergency incident management meeting in Abuja on Wednesday. She explained that laboratory specialists conducted three rounds of molecular testing to establish the type of virus responsible for the infection.
The Federal Government had earlier confirmed the case after a woman who recently travelled to Nigeria from Uganda tested positive for Ebola. Following the diagnosis, health officials identified 44 people who had been in contact with the patient and commenced efforts to monitor their health and determine whether others might have been exposed.
Authorities are also strengthening infection prevention measures in healthcare facilities, improving disease surveillance and tracing individuals who may have come into contact with the infected diplomat. Health workers, patients, caregivers and possible travel contacts are among those being considered in the tracing exercise.
The Federal Government has urged Nigerians to remain vigilant without resorting to panic, assuring the public that relevant agencies are working to contain the infection. Health facilities have also been advised to promptly identify and isolate suspected cases, observe strict infection-control procedures and report possible infections to the appropriate authorities.
Ebola spreads through direct contact with the blood or other bodily fluids of an infected person, as well as contaminated materials. Symptoms may include fever, headache, severe weakness, vomiting and diarrhoea. Health officials have advised members of the public to maintain proper hygiene and seek guidance from public health authorities if they suspect exposure.
Nigeria’s previous experience with Ebola in 2014 provides a reference point for the current response. Authorities are relying on surveillance, laboratory testing, isolation and contact tracing to prevent further transmission as investigations into the latest case continue.
