The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) has placed Nigeria on “high alert” following an outbreak of Ebola virus disease (EVD) in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC).
The NCDC said it had activated preventive measures and was closely monitoring the situation to prevent the disease from threatening Nigeria.
Naija News reported that the centre disclosed this in a health advisory signed by its Director-General, Jide Idris.
The NCDC said it had put all preparatory measures in place and would review them based on the public health risk assessment and the evolving epidemiological situation.
“These measures will continue to be reviewed in line with the evolving epidemiological situation and public health risk assessment.”
Additionally, the centre has stepped up surveillance of travellers arriving in Nigeria from countries where Ebola virus disease (EVD) is currently spreading or poses a potential risk.
The centre requires travellers from such countries to complete the Health Declaration Form to support public health surveillance and follow-up.
The organisation also urged Nigerians to watch out for symptoms of EVD.
It advised anyone who develops such symptoms to seek medical attention promptly and, where necessary, disclose any relevant travel history or possible exposure to the disease.
The NCDC said it issued the advisory after consulting the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, public health experts and conducting a Dynamic Risk Assessment.
Backstory…
As of September 20, the DRC had recorded 7,672 confirmed cases of Ebola virus disease (EVD) and 3,699 associated deaths, based on data through September 19.
Data through September 18 showed that 886 people were hospitalised in isolation. The latest figures represent an increase of 58 confirmed cases and 23 deaths compared with the previous report issued on September 19.
Ituri recorded 38 of the 58 new cases, followed by North Kivu with 14, Haut-Uélé with five and Tshopo with one.
The centre reiterated its commitment to protecting Nigerians through evidence-based surveillance, preparedness and response to public health threats.
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