Nigeria has been placed on high alert following the continued spread of Ebola Virus Disease (EVD) in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC).
The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) said it has stepped up preparedness and surveillance measures as health authorities monitor the evolving outbreak in the DRC. (Channels Television)
NCDC Director-General, Jide Idris, said the country’s preparedness measures would continue to be reviewed based on the latest epidemiological information and assessment of the public health risk.
The agency has also strengthened surveillance for travellers arriving from countries affected by relevant Ebola transmission.
Travellers from countries considered to have active or relevant transmission are required to complete the Health Declaration Form and comply with follow-up measures where necessary. Travellers from other countries are currently exempt from the requirement.
The NCDC urged Nigerians to remain vigilant and seek medical attention promptly if they develop symptoms associated with Ebola, particularly where there is a relevant travel or exposure history.
The agency said the measures were based on a dynamic risk assessment carried out with public health experts and the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare.
The latest alert comes as the DRC continues to record new Ebola cases and deaths.
According to the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC), the DRC had recorded 7,672 confirmed cases and 3,699 deaths as of September 20, based on data up to September 19. A total of 886 patients were also hospitalised in isolation. (ECDC)
The ECDC reported that 58 new confirmed cases and 23 deaths had been recorded in the latest reporting period, with cases reported in Ituri, North Kivu, Haut-Uélé and Tshopo provinces.
Ituri remains the most affected province, accounting for the largest share of reported cases and deaths. (ECDC)
The outbreak involves the Bundibugyo virus, a species of Ebola virus. The NCDC has previously said Nigeria has no confirmed case from the current outbreak and has urged states to strengthen their readiness to detect and respond quickly to any suspected case. (NCDC)
The health agency also continues to advise Nigerians to rely on official health information and report suspected cases or relevant exposures promptly.
Source: NCDC/ECDC
