Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare has reassured Nigerians that no case of Ebola Virus Disease has been recorded in the country, even as authorities intensify surveillance and emergency preparedness measures following outbreaks reported in the Democratic Republic of Congo and Uganda.
Gatekeepers News reports that in a statement issued on Tuesday, the ministry said Nigeria remains free of the Bundibugyo strain of the Ebola virus but has activated heightened precautionary measures across the country to prevent any possible importation of the disease.
According to the ministry, measures already in place include stricter screening procedures at airports, seaports and land borders, strengthened disease surveillance systems, activation of emergency response structures, enhanced laboratory capacity, and increased readiness of rapid response teams nationwide.
The ministry said all incoming travellers are required to complete health declaration forms and undergo travel history assessments. It added that thermal scanners are being used at entry points to detect passengers showing symptoms associated with viral haemorrhagic fevers, with such individuals subjected to further screening and possible referral for medical evaluation.
Health authorities also said rapid response teams at national and state levels have been placed on alert as part of efforts to strengthen integrated disease surveillance and response activities across the country.
The government noted that it is closely monitoring developments in affected countries and is actively investigating public health alerts and rumours to ensure prompt action where necessary.
The Bundibugyo Ebola virus is one of the known strains of Ebola Virus Disease and is spread through direct contact with infected bodily fluids. Symptoms may include fever, weakness, headache, muscle pain, vomiting and diarrhoea.
According to the World Health Organization, Uganda recently confirmed cases linked to the strain, prompting heightened surveillance efforts in neighbouring and at-risk countries.
The ministry urged Nigerians to remain calm and continue observing proper hygiene practices while relying only on verified information from official public health sources.
It also warned against the spread of misinformation, stressing that there is currently no confirmed Ebola case in Nigeria.
