No new Ebola cases 21 days after imported infection – NCDC

The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) says Nigeria has recorded no new cases of Ebola virus disease, 21 days after an imported case involving a traveller from Uganda was confirmed in the country.

The agency said 34 of the 62 contacts identified after the case was confirmed have completed their 21-day monitoring period, while the remaining 28 are still under surveillance.

The Director-General of NCDC, Dr Jide Idris, disclosed this in a National Health Security Update titled, “Follow-up Address: 21 Days Since Confirmation of Imported Ebola Case.”

He explained that being identified as a contact does not mean an individual has contracted the disease, noting that the monitoring process is designed to facilitate early detection of symptoms and ensure a timely public health response.

“The 21 days since the first case was confirmed must not be confused with the separate monitoring period for each contact,” he said.

Idris stressed the importance of early recognition of Ebola symptoms, particularly as the disease may initially present with signs similar to those of common illnesses.

He urged healthcare workers in public and private health facilities to remain vigilant, routinely enquire about patients’ travel history and possible exposure, observe appropriate infection prevention and control measures, and promptly notify public health authorities of suspected cases.

He also called on members of the public to remain alert and report suspected infections, assuring that the agency would continue to investigate credible alerts, communicate verified findings and sustain response activities until all necessary public health measures are completed.

Pharmanewsonline reports that Ebola spreads through direct contact with the blood or other body fluids of an infected person who is symptomatic, or contaminated materials. Anyone who develops symptoms following a possible exposure should avoid contact with others and call the NCDC toll-free line on 6232 for guidance before visiting a health facility.

Meanwhile, Idris drew attention to other infectious diseases that tend to pose increased public health concerns during the dry season, urging healthcare workers and state authorities, particularly in high-risk areas, to strengthen surveillance and preparedness.

He identified dengue fever and chikungunya in Sokoto and Zamfara states, cerebrospinal meningitis in northern states, and diphtheria, which continues to threaten children who are not fully immunised, among the diseases requiring heightened vigilance.

“Dengue fever has been confirmed in Sokoto and Zamfara States, and Chikungunya in Sokoto State. Our teams continue to monitor the evolving situation and support affected states,” he disclosed.

The NCDC boss cautioned against assuming that every fever is malaria, explaining that dengue and chikungunya can also present with fever, headache, body aches and joint pain.

He noted that dengue could become life-threatening if its warning signs are not promptly recognised and managed. Such signs include persistent fever, particularly when accompanied by a rash, vomiting or severe joint pain. Severe abdominal pain, repeated vomiting, bleeding and difficulty breathing, he warned, require urgent medical attention.

He advised anyone who suspects dengue infection to seek immediate medical attention at a healthcare facility.

Idris further explained that the mosquitoes responsible for transmitting dengue and chikungunya are often active during the day, urging residents to take preventive measures by draining stagnant water, covering water-storage containers, clearing discarded tyres and other potential mosquito breeding sites, and protecting themselves against mosquito bites.