NCDC: Zero New Ebola Cases, 28 Contacts Under Watch as Multiple Health Threats Emerge

​Nigeria has successfully avoided any secondary spread of the Bundibugyo strain of the Ebola virus, recording zero new infections 21 days after the country’s first imported case was detected.

​However, the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) has issued a stern public health warning regarding a concurrent wave of infectious disease threats sweeping across various parts of the country, just as the dry and festive seasons approach.

​Providing a comprehensive national health security update, NCDC Director-General Dr Jide Idris revealed that out of the 62 primary contacts initially linked to the imported case—which involved a traveler from Uganda—34 individuals have successfully completed their mandatory 21-day monitoring period. Only 28 contacts remain under active surveillance as health authorities approach the final clearance window.

​Expanding Disease Threats

​Beyond the sustained containment of Ebola, the NCDC has flagged five major disease priorities requiring heightened vigilance from both state governments and the general public:

• ​Dengue and Chikungunya: Dengue fever outbreaks have been officially confirmed in Sokoto and Zamfara States, while Chikungunya has also been reported in Sokoto. In response, the agency has deployed national rapid response teams and entomologists to assist with vector control, laboratory testing, and clinical readiness.
• ​Diphtheria: The bacterial infection remains a persistent concern, heavily impacting children who have missed routine immunizations.
• ​Meningitis and Lassa Fever: Ahead of the approaching dry season and harmattan conditions, health authorities are ramping up seasonal preparedness, boosting surveillance, and enhancing diagnostic capabilities in high-risk meningitis belt states.

​Public Advisory and Prevention

​Dr Idris emphasized that public health vigilance must extend far beyond viral hemorrhagic fevers, urging citizens to abandon the assumption that every fever is malaria. He noted that arboviral infections like dengue and chikungunya present similar symptoms—including severe headaches, body aches, and joint pains—with danger signs such as persistent vomiting or bleeding requiring immediate medical evaluation.

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​To mitigate transmission risks during upcoming travel and large gatherings, the NCDC has outlined key safety measures for citizens:

• ​Vector Control: Protect living spaces against mosquitoes and rodents using treated nets and repellents.
• ​Immunization: Ensure children receive all routine childhood vaccines to ward off vaccine-preventable outbreaks like diphtheria.
• ​Hygiene & Early Care: Maintain high standards of personal hygiene, avoid spreading unverified health rumors, and seek prompt medical attention at recognized public or private health facilities at the onset of symptoms.

​Anyone suspecting an infection or seeking guidance can contact the NCDC toll-free public helpline at 6232 or reach out to local state public health departments.