FG Confirms Ebola Case in Abuja, Identifies 44 Contacts
FG Confirms Ebola Case in Abuja, Identifies 44 Contacts
The Federal Government has confirmed a case of Ebola disease in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja, following laboratory testing, as health authorities intensify efforts to prevent further transmission.
The Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Professor Muhammad Ali Pate, disclosed the development on Tuesday, stating that the patient, a woman who recently arrived in Nigeria from Uganda on an international flight, had received treatment at a private hospital in the FCT before her infection was confirmed.
According to the government, the patient has been isolated and is receiving medical care, while public health officials have commenced contact tracing to identify and monitor individuals who may have been exposed to the virus.
A total of 44 close contacts have been identified so far. They include healthcare workers, patients, caregivers and travel contacts. Authorities are working to establish the extent of possible exposure and prevent further spread of the disease.
The Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) and the FCT Health Services Secretariat are coordinating the response. Surveillance has also been intensified, while the hospital where the patient received treatment is being supported to strengthen infection prevention and control measures.
The government has directed public and private healthcare facilities nationwide to remain vigilant, promptly identify and isolate suspected cases, observe established infection prevention protocols and report suspected infections to the appropriate health authorities.
Ebola is a serious viral disease transmitted primarily through direct contact with the blood or other body fluids of an infected person who has developed symptoms, or through contact with contaminated materials. Early detection, isolation and contact tracing are essential to controlling its spread.
Nigerians have been urged to remain calm, observe good hygiene and cooperate with public health officials.
Anyone who suspects exposure or develops symptoms should seek guidance from health authorities and follow their instructions.
The government said investigations and contact-tracing activities are continuing, with further updates expected as more information becomes available.
