The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) has announced the successful completion of monitoring for 62 individuals exposed to an imported case of the Bundibugyo strain of the Ebola Virus Disease (EVD). The agency confirmed that none of these contacts developed the infection following a mandatory monitoring period of 21 days.
NCDC Director-General Dr. Jide Idris disclosed that despite the lack of new infections, it would be premature to declare Nigeria Ebola-free. During the monitoring, 13 individuals exhibited symptoms such as fever, but laboratory tests confirmed that none were infected with the virus.
In addition to monitoring the 62 contacts, the NCDC investigated seven suspected cases across various states, including Adamawa and Lagos, all of which tested negative for Ebola. Dr. Idris emphasized that the country would continue to maintain heightened surveillance and preparedness in light of ongoing Ebola cases in the Democratic Republic of Congo.
Following the detection of the initial case, the NCDC activated its National Emergency Operations Centre and established an Incident Management System to coordinate the response. This included tracing potential exposure contacts, enhancing infection prevention in healthcare facilities, and training health personnel.
Dr. Idris provided an update on the index patient, who received treatment in Nigeria before being evacuated to Switzerland for further care. Upon arrival in Switzerland, tests confirmed she was still positive for the virus; however, she later recovered and was discharged from the hospital.
The necessity for ongoing vigilance was underscored, as Dr. Idris urged the public and healthcare providers to remain alert to symptoms of infectious diseases, particularly as the festive season approaches. He called for appropriate medical responses and the sharing of travel history to aid in effective diagnosis.
Moreover, organizers of public events have been urged to implement adequate sanitation measures and report any suspected illnesses to health authorities. The NCDC has also refined public health guidelines to facilitate safe gatherings during this period.
