By Ikugbadi Oluwasegun
Following the confirmation of a new Ebola Virus Disease (EVD) outbreak in Kasaï Province of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) has issued a public health advisory to alert Nigerians and strengthen national preparedness.
The DRC’s health authorities reported 28 suspected cases and 15 deaths, including four healthcare workers, as of September 4, 2025.
In the NCDC public health advisory, the agency confirmed that there are currently no reported cases of Ebola virus disease in Nigeria, and assured the public that it is closely monitoring the regional and global situation.
The advisory, signed by the NCDC Director-General, Dr. Jide Idris, outlined that the NCDC is working in coordination with relevant ministries, departments, agencies, and international partners to boost surveillance, enhance laboratory diagnostics, and support frontline healthcare systems.
To reduce the risk of transmission, the NCDC is urging Nigerians to adhere to regular hand hygiene by washing hands with soap under running water or using alcohol-based hand sanitizers and Avoid unnecessary travel to countries currently experiencing Ebola outbreaks.
Healthcare workers are also advised to maintain a high index of suspicion when assessing patients, particularly those with travel history to affected regions or presenting with symptoms such as fever, fatigue, vomiting, or bleeding.
The NCDC further advises individuals who have recently traveled to affected areas and develop symptoms suggestive of Ebola to Immediately call the NCDC 24/7 toll-free line: 6232, or Contact their State Ministry of Health hotline for assessment, isolation, and testing.
