NCDC intensifies Ebola surveillance following outbreak in Uganda
The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) has stepped up surveillance at the country’s entry points in response to a new Ebola outbreak in Uganda.
Last week, Uganda confirmed one death and identified 44 contacts linked to the outbreak.
In a recent advisory, NCDC clarified that no Ebola cases have been reported in Nigeria but assured the public of their preparedness to prevent the spread of the virus. Director-General Jide Idris stated that NCDC, working alongside relevant agencies, is closely monitoring the situation.
To mitigate potential risks, NCDC has implemented several measures, including an updated Ebola Virus Disease (EVD) contingency plan, increased surveillance at entry points, and improved diagnostic testing. In the event of a suspected outbreak, Lassa fever laboratories will be activated for Ebola testing if needed.
Although vaccines exist for certain Ebola strains, the approved vaccine for the Zaire strain is not currently available in Nigeria.
Idris emphasized that early detection, isolation, supportive treatment, and effective contact tracing are key to reducing the virus’s impact.
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