The World Health Organization (WHO) has called on Nigeria and other African countries to strengthen Ebola preparedness and surveillance following confirmation of the country’s first reported case of the disease caused by the Bundibugyo virus.
WHO Director-General, Dr Tedros Ghebreyesus, made the appeal on Wednesday, stressing the need for early detection, effective contact tracing and measures to prevent further transmission.
He said the organization was working with partners and the governments of Nigeria, Kenya and the Democratic Republic of the Congo to strengthen the response to the outbreak.
Contact tracing is ongoing as health authorities work to identify people who may have been exposed to the virus, Tedros said in a post on his official X account.
He urged countries across the region to maintain a high level of readiness to protect healthcare workers and communities and prevent the spread of the disease.
The warning followed the Federal Government’s confirmation on Tuesday of Nigeria’s first imported case of Ebola Virus Disease in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
The patient, a woman who recently travelled from Uganda, tested positive for the infection and is currently in isolation, receiving medical care.
Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof Ali Pate, said health authorities had identified 44 contacts for monitoring. Those being followed up include healthcare workers, patients, caregivers and individuals who may have travelled with the patient.
The government is working with the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) and other relevant agencies to strengthen surveillance and contain any potential spread.
Authorities have also appealed to Nigerians to remain calm, rely on verified information and follow official public health guidance.
Members of the public have been advised to maintain proper hand hygiene, familiarize themselves with Ebola symptoms and contact public health authorities if they suspect they have been exposed to the virus.
The WHO’s call underscores the importance of regional coordination as Nigeria and its partners work to monitor contacts, detect possible additional cases and limit the risk of further transmission.
