The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) has urged Nigerians to remain on high alert and strictly observe preventive measures to curb the risk of viral disease infection and transmission.
The call follows the confirmation of an imported case of Ebola in Kenya, caused by the Bundibugyo virus and linked to an ongoing outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). The development has heightened concerns about the disease’s potential to spread beyond national borders.
In a statement, the NCDC confirmed that as of October 6, 2026, no case of Ebola had been recorded in Nigeria. Nevertheless, the agency said it was actively assessing the risk to the country and strengthening national surveillance and preparedness systems in collaboration with relevant government authorities and partners.
The NCDC advised the public to practise regular hand hygiene by washing hands thoroughly with soap and water or using an alcohol-based hand sanitiser. It also cautioned against any contact with the blood or body fluids of a person who is ill, or with the body of anyone who has died from an unknown illness.
Citizens were further warned to avoid handling sick or dead wild animals and to refrain from consuming raw or poorly cooked bushmeat. Anyone who develops symptoms consistent with Ebola or falls ill after a possible exposure should seek immediate medical care at a recognised health facility, the agency emphasised.
“Continued vigilance and early reporting remain critical to ensuring that any potential case is detected and managed promptly,” the NCDC stated.
Ebola is a severe viral haemorrhagic disease that can lead to serious illness and death. Transmission occurs primarily through direct contact with the blood or other body fluids of an infected person or animal.