We’re closely monitoring Ebola situation — Nigerian Govt

The Federal Government, through the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention, NCDC, says it has stepped up surveillance and emergency response following an Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of the Congo and a confirmed imported case in Uganda.

In a public health advisory signed by NCDC Director-General, Dr  Jide Idris, the agency said it was closely monitoring developments in affected countries and coordinating preparedness efforts with the Port Health Services and other stakeholders.

“Response activities are ongoing in affected areas, and we are ensuring continued vigilance within Nigeria’s public health system,” Idris said.

Highlighting preparedness measures activated, Idris said NCDC had strengthened nationwide surveillance systems for Ebola and other epidemic-prone diseases, while intensifying event-based monitoring and coordination with state health authorities.

Other measures include enhancing laboratory and diagnostic readiness, strengthening infection prevention and control awareness in healthcare settings, and expanding community engagement and public risk communication.

According to him, the agency was closely tracking global and regional developments to ensure a rapid response if the situation changed.

DAILY POST reports 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.

The health agency further stated that the disease has an incubation period ranging from two to 21 days.