By Bilkis Abdulraheem Lawal
The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) has confirmed that two suspected cases of viral hemorrhagic fever recently reported in Abuja have tested negative for Ebola and Marburg viruses.
The agency said further tests are ongoing for other viral hemorrhagic fevers, including Lassa fever and dengue fever. One of the suspected cases involved a traveler returning from Kigali, Rwanda, who immediately sought medical care in Abuja upon feeling unwell.
NCDC Director-General, Dr. Jide Idris, described the patient’s quick decision to report and the prompt response by clinicians at Nisa Premier Hospital as “highly commendable,” noting that their vigilance minimised any potential risk to the public.
“These recent events remind us that the vigilance of one clinician, the responsibility of one patient, and the cooperation of all relevant stakeholders can protect millions,” Idris said.
The NCDC emphasised that it has already activated heightened surveillance at points of entry, placed isolation and treatment facilities on alert, and prepositioned infection-prevention supplies. State governments have been urged to ensure functional isolation centers and support surveillance officers, while healthcare workers , especially in private hospitals , are reminded to maintain a high index of suspicion and report unusual cases immediately.
Nigerians are advised to practice good hand hygiene, avoid contact with symptomatic persons, handle animals safely, and seek medical care early if symptoms such as fever, vomiting, or unexplained bleeding occur, particularly after travel. The public has also been cautioned against spreading unverified information.
The NCDC reassured citizens that Nigeria’s preparedness system is active, stressing that with vigilance, collaboration, and responsible action, outbreaks can be prevented before they spread.
For suspected cases, Nigerians are encouraged to call the toll-free line 6232 or contact NCDC through WhatsApp on +234 708 711 0839.
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