The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) says it has heightened surveillance and emergency preparedness measures following the outbreak of Ebola Virus Disease in the Democratic Republic of Congo and a confirmed imported case reported in Uganda.
In a public health advisory signed by the Director-General of the agency, Dr. Jide Idris, the NCDC disclosed that it is closely monitoring developments across affected countries while coordinating response strategies with Port Health Services and other critical stakeholders to prevent any possible spread into Nigeria.
Heightened Surveillance Nationwide
Idris said response activities were already ongoing in affected areas, stressing that the agency was maintaining vigilance across Nigeria’s public health system to ensure early detection and rapid containment of any suspected case.
As part of the preparedness measures activated nationwide, the NCDC said it had strengthened surveillance systems for Ebola and other epidemic-prone diseases, intensified event-based monitoring, and improved coordination with state health authorities across the country.
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The agency also revealed that it had enhanced laboratory and diagnostic readiness, increased infection prevention and control awareness in healthcare facilities, and expanded community engagement alongside public risk communication efforts aimed at educating Nigerians on preventive measures.
According to the NCDC boss, the agency is continuously tracking global and regional developments surrounding the disease to enable swift intervention should the situation escalate.
The health agency explained that Ebola Virus Disease is a severe and often fatal viral infection transmitted through direct contact with the blood, bodily fluids, or contaminated materials of infected persons or animals.
It further noted that the disease has an incubation period of between two and 21 days, warning that early detection, public awareness, and strict infection control measures remain critical in preventing outbreaks.
Esther Ososanya is an investigative journalist with Pinnacle Daily, reporting across health, business, environment, metro, Fct and crime. Known for her bold, empathetic storytelling, she uncovers hidden truths, challenges broken systems, and gives voice to overlooked Nigerians. Her work drives national conversations and demands accountability one powerful story at a time.