The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) has placed the country on “high alert” following the ongoing Ebola Virus Disease outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).
The NCDC said all necessary preparedness activities are ongoing as it monitors developments and assesses the potential public health risk to Nigeria.
In an advisory signed by its Director-General, Jide Idris, the agency urged Nigerians to remain vigilant, particularly for symptoms associated with Ebola, and to promptly seek medical attention while disclosing any relevant travel or exposure history.
Travellers arriving from countries with active or relevant Ebola transmission have also been directed to complete the Health Declaration Form as part of enhanced surveillance and follow-up measures. Passengers from other countries are currently exempt from the requirement.
The advisory followed a dynamic risk assessment by the NCDC in consultation with public health experts and the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare. The agency said the measures would continue to be reviewed as the epidemiological situation evolves.
According to the latest figures cited by the NCDC, the DRC had reported 7,672 confirmed cases and 3,699 related deaths as of September 20, based on data through September 19. The outbreak has affected several provinces, including Ituri, North Kivu, Haut-Uélé and Tshopo.
The NCDC said it would continue evidence-based surveillance, preparedness and response measures to protect Nigerians from the potential spread of the disease.
