NCDC Raises Ebola Vigilance After Imported Case Confirmed In Kenya
The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) has increased its vigilance and initiated a review of preparedness protocols following a confirmed case of Ebola caused by the Bundibugyo virus reported in Kenya.
In an official statement released Tuesday, NCDC Director-General Dr. Jide Idris indicated that the agency has been closely monitoring the ongoing Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and evaluating its potential impact on Nigeria.
The confirmed case in Kenya, according to the NCDC, introduces a new aspect to the regional health situation, underscoring the risks associated with international travel and population movement. This raises concerns about the potential importation of the virus into Nigeria.
The individual involved is a Kenyan citizen who had been residing in the DRC before traveling by road to Kampala, Uganda. He then flew to Nairobi, where he was isolated and subsequently tested positive for the Bundibugyo virus. The patient later died, prompting Kenyan health authorities to initiate contact tracing and other necessary response measures.
As of October 6, 2026, there have been no confirmed cases of Ebola in Nigeria, the NCDC reported. “Kindly note, as of October 6, 2026, there is no confirmed case of Ebola disease in Nigeria,” the agency stated.
Since the outbreak began in the DRC, the NCDC has been collaborating with the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, Port Health Services, state governments, and various partners to enhance Nigeria’s preparedness. Their efforts have focused on early detection, isolation, laboratory diagnosis, infection prevention, contact tracing, risk communication, and the protection of healthcare workers.
A National Ebola Preparedness Tabletop Simulation exercise has been conducted to evaluate response strategies and identify areas needing improvement.
The NCDC emphasized the significance of early detection and rapid response in preventing the virus’s spread. The agency urged the public to remain calm yet vigilant and to practice regular hand hygiene. Citizens are advised to avoid direct contact with the blood or bodily fluids of individuals who are sick and to seek medical attention promptly if they feel unwell, especially following travel to affected regions or after possible exposure to a suspected case.
Additionally, the NCDC recommends avoiding contact with the bodies of individuals who have died from unexplained illnesses, handling sick or deceased wildlife, and consuming raw or improperly prepared bushmeat.
Healthcare workers have been advised to maintain a high level of suspicion when assessing patients with symptoms indicative of Ebola, particularly those with a history of travel to affected areas or relevant exposure within the last 21 days. They should isolate suspected cases immediately, employ the necessary precautions and personal protective equipment, and notify public health authorities through the established surveillance channels.
For travelers to and from affected areas, the NCDC advises remaining vigilant and monitoring health for 21 days after leaving those regions. Individuals should contact public health authorities promptly if symptoms develop.
The NCDC will continue to monitor the situation in Kenya, the DRC, and other affected countries while collaborating with national, regional, and international partners to evaluate potential implications for Nigeria and to strengthen preparedness as needed.
