NCDC Makes Fresh Announcement Amid Ebola Outbreak In Uganda

NCDC Makes Fresh Announcement Amid Ebola Outbreak In Uganda

The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) has issued a public health advisory following the recent outbreak of Ebola virus disease (EVD) in Uganda.

The Ugandan Ministry of Health confirmed the resurgence of the disease last week, reporting one fatal case. Authorities have since identified 44 individuals who had contact with the infected patient and are being monitored for possible symptoms.

Nigeria Strengthens Surveillance Measures

In response to this development, the NCDC has intensified its surveillance efforts at the nation’s entry points to prevent the virus from spreading into Nigeria.

“On January 30, 2025, Uganda’s Ministry of Health confirmed an outbreak of the Sudan strain of the Ebola virus in Wakiso, Mukono, and Mbale City. So far, only one case has been officially reported,” the NCDC stated in a post on its official X (formerly Twitter) handle on Monday.

The agency reassured Nigerians that there are currently no confirmed cases of Ebola within the country but emphasized its commitment to closely monitoring the situation in collaboration with global health partners.

Proactive Measures to Prevent an Outbreak in Nigeria

While Nigeria remains free of the virus, the NCDC has taken proactive steps to ensure preparedness against a potential outbreak.

“The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention, in collaboration with relevant government bodies, agencies, and international health organizations through the National Emerging Viral Hemorrhagic Diseases (EVHD) Technical Working Group, continues to track developments related to the disease and has initiated measures to enhance our readiness,” said NCDC Director-General, Dr. Jide Idris, in an official advisory issued on Sunday.

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Among the measures being implemented are:

  • Updating the Emergency Contingency Plan for EVD to ensure swift response if an outbreak occurs.
  • Strengthening surveillance at key entry points such as international airports and land borders.
  • Enhancing diagnostic capabilities in designated laboratories across major cities with international air travel.
  • Activating Lassa fever testing laboratories to expand Ebola virus testing if needed.

Ebola Vaccine Availability in Nigeria

Addressing concerns over vaccines, Dr. Idris clarified that Nigeria currently does not have Ebola vaccines available. However, he noted that vaccines and treatments exist for certain strains of the virus.

“The approved vaccine for the Zaire species of the Ebola virus is not available in Nigeria at this time but can be obtained from the World Health Organization (WHO) African Region. However, this vaccine does not provide protection against the Sudan strain currently detected in Uganda,” he explained.

Public Health Recommendations

The NCDC urged Nigerians, particularly healthcare workers and travelers, to remain vigilant. Early detection and proper response play a critical role in preventing the spread of the virus.

Key preventive measures include:

  • Prompt identification and isolation of suspected cases.
  • Early initiation of supportive treatment.
  • Strict infection prevention and control measures in hospitals and homes.
  • Tracing and monitoring individuals who have had contact with infected persons.
  • Safe burial practices for deceased individuals to prevent further transmission.
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The NCDC reassured the public that it remains on high alert and will continue to provide updates as the situation unfolds. It also advised individuals traveling to or from affected regions to take necessary precautions and report any symptoms such as fever, fatigue, vomiting, or unexplained bleeding to health authorities immediately.

For more information and updates, Nigerians are encouraged to follow official communications from the NCDC and the Ministry of Health.

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