The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) has issued a public health advisory following reports of a new Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), which has already claimed 15 lives.
In its statement, the NCDC urged Nigerians to remain vigilant, especially those traveling to or returning from affected regions.
“We are closely monitoring the situation in DRC and working with international partners to ensure preparedness and response mechanisms are strengthened,” the agency said.
The Centre emphasized the importance of early detection, rapid response, and strict adherence to infection prevention measures in order to prevent a potential spread into Nigeria.
Nigeria successfully contained the 2014 Ebola outbreak, which was introduced through Lagos, preventing a nationwide crisis. NCDC noted that the country has since improved its surveillance, laboratory capacity, and emergency response systems to quickly tackle public health threats.
The advisory urged citizens to:
- Practice good hand hygiene.
- Avoid contact with blood, body fluids, or items contaminated by infected persons.
- Report any suspicious illnesses or deaths to health authorities.
The World Health Organization (WHO) has also expressed concern over the DRC outbreak, warning of possible cross-border spread if containment measures are not strengthened.
NCDC assured Nigerians that no Ebola case has been detected in the country, but stressed that caution and vigilance remain essential.
