Nigeria: Diplomat diagnosed with Ebola suffers multiple organ failure…

A diplomat diagnosed with Ebola in Abuja has reportedly developed multiple organ failure, prompting heightened surveillance and emergency measures by federal and state authorities.

According to The PUNCH, the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention confirmed that the patient, whose identity and nationality remain undisclosed, contracted the Bundibugyo strain.

NCDC laboratory director Olajumoke Babatunde disclosed the development during an emergency meeting on Wednesday.

“The patient’s condition has deteriorated. We did three levels of tests, but all were molecular. The strain was Bundibugyo,” she revealed.

The Federal Government confirmed the imported infection on Tuesday after the woman arrived from Uganda and received treatment at a private hospital in the Federal Capital Territory.

Health Minister Muhammad Ali Pate said officials were collaborating with Uganda and tracing contacts to prevent further transmission.

“We must be vigilant, but not panic. People should respect public health information from trusted sources and not spread misinformation and false rumours,” he said.

Aviation Minister Festus Keyamo subsequently directed authorities to place 46 identified contacts on a no-fly list for at least 21 days. The group comprises 44 hospital contacts and two domestic staff.

Meanwhile, Ogun State is tracing 111 persons of interest, while Anambra reported monitoring 40 people, of whom 33 had completed follow-up and seven remained under observation.

Niger State has activated emergency operations and is preparing an isolation centre.

The NCDC said its response includes case management, contact tracing, intensified surveillance and infection prevention measures.

Airports are introducing temperature-screening cameras and additional health checks for passengers.

The Senate also called for mandatory screening at international entry points and emergency funding for disease-response facilities nationwide.

Authorities stressed that people identified as contacts are not automatically infected, while urging the public to observe hygiene precautions and rely on verified health updates as officials intensify efforts to prevent further transmission nationwide.