Ebola Outbreak: What Nigerians should do prevent infection

The Federal Government has confirmed a case of Ebola virus disease in Abuja, identifying 44 contacts as health authorities intensify efforts to prevent further transmission.

According to The Punch, Health Minister Muhammad Ali Pate announced the development on Tuesday, October 20, following laboratory confirmation of the infection.

The patient, a woman who recently arrived from Uganda, received treatment at a private hospital in the Federal Capital Territory before testing positive.

She has been isolated and is receiving medical care.

Public health officials are tracing 44 identified contacts, including healthcare workers, patients, caregivers and airline passengers who may have been exposed.

The government has intensified surveillance and directed hospitals nationwide to identify, isolate and report suspected cases promptly.

“Anyone who develops symptoms should avoid close contact with others and call public health authorities for guidance before visiting a healthcare facility,” the government’s statement advised.

According to the World Health Organisation, Ebola spreads through direct contact with infected bodily fluids or contaminated materials.

Symptoms may develop between two and 21 days after exposure, including fever, fatigue, headache, vomiting and diarrhoea.

Authorities advised Nigerians to practise regular handwashing, avoid contact with suspected patients and seek immediate medical guidance following possible exposure.

Healthcare workers were urged to observe strict infection prevention measures.

Pate appealed for public cooperation, stressing that early detection and effective contact tracing were essential to preventing further infections.