Nigeria raises Ebola preparedness level after DRC outbreak update

Nigeria’s Centre for Disease Control and Prevention has placed the country on high alert following an update on the Ebola Virus Disease outbreak in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. In an advisory signed by Director General Jide Idris, the NCDC said preparatory activities were under way to address any threat. It said the measures would be reviewed as the epidemiological situation and public-health risk assessment developed.

Travellers arriving from countries with active or relevant Ebola transmission were advised to complete a Health Declaration Form. Passengers from other countries are currently exempt from completing the form, the agency said. The NCDC urged people to remain vigilant for symptoms consistent with Ebola, seek medical attention promptly and disclose relevant travel or exposure history where applicable.

It said the advisory followed a dynamic risk assessment and consultations with public-health experts and the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare. According to figures cited in the advisory, the DRC had reported 7,672 confirmed cases and 3,699 related deaths by September 20, based on data through September 19. There were 886 patients in isolation, while 1,879 people infected with Bundibugyo virus had recovered.

The cited data recorded new cases in Ituri, North Kivu, Haut-Uélé and Tshopo. The NCDC said it remained committed to surveillance, preparedness and response.