By Bilkis Abdulraheem Lawal
The World Health Organization (WHO) has urged countries across the region to strengthen Ebola surveillance and emergency preparedness following Nigeria’s confirmation of an imported case of Ebola Bundibugyo virus disease in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
Nigeria is the fifth country to detect the virus since an outbreak was declared in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) on 15 May 2026, according to information provided by health authorities.
According to the ministry, 44 contacts have been identified and are being monitored as health authorities intensify efforts to trace other people who may have been exposed to the virus. Infection prevention and control measures are also being strengthened at the private health facility where the patient initially sought care.
WHO said early case detection, prompt contact tracing and effective infection prevention and control measures remain critical to containing the spread of Ebola Bundibugyo virus disease.
The global health agency, alongside its partners, is supporting Nigerian health authorities with case investigations, contact tracing, infection prevention and control, and the provision of essential supplies, including personal protective equipment for health workers.
WHO also called on countries in the region to maintain strong disease surveillance systems, strengthen laboratory capacity, keep rapid response and clinical teams ready for deployment, and ensure that essential medical supplies are available when needed.
It further urged countries to reinforce infection prevention and control measures in both public and private health facilities, engage communities and intensify monitoring at points of entry, supported by appropriate response plans.
The call comes as the Ebola outbreak in the DRC continues to evolve. WHO also reported that Kenya had recorded nine cases linked to an imported case in recent weeks, underscoring the importance of regional preparedness against further transmission.
WHO said sustained vigilance was essential to detect cases early, prevent onward transmission and protect health workers and communities.
The agency, however, advised against imposing travel or trade restrictions on affected countries, adding that it continues to monitor and, where necessary, verify measures introduced in response to the outbreak.
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