Ebola Alert: Suspected cases raise alarm

Nigeria is on high alert after the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) confirmed that two suspected viral haemorrhagic fever cases in Abuja tested negative for both Ebola and Marburg viruses.

NCDC Director-General, Dr. Jide Idris, said one of the cases involved a traveller from Kigali who sought medical help immediately after feeling unwell. His early report, coupled with the vigilance of hospital staff, triggered a swift national response.

The NCDC praised clinicians at Nisa Premier Hospital, Abuja, as well as FCT rapid response teams, immigration and airline officials, for their coordinated action that helped contain public risk.

Idris explained that Nigeria had already stepped up surveillance following fresh Ebola reports in other African countries. Points of entry are under tighter watch, isolation centres have been placed on standby, and testing laboratories are ready for emergencies.

He urged state governments to support surveillance officers and keep treatment facilities functional, while healthcare workers must maintain high suspicion and strictly follow infection-prevention protocols.

The NCDC boss also appealed to Nigerians to practise good hygiene, avoid risky animal contact, and seek immediate medical attention if symptoms arise — especially for travellers from affected countries.

“The NCDC remains committed to protecting the health of all Nigerians,” Idris assured.