Ebola threat: FG orders isolation of travellers with suspected symptoms

The Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare says Nigeria has activated isolation protocols for suspected Ebola cases as part of strengthened national preparedness measures to prevent the possible importation of Bundibugyo ebolavirus (BEBOV), reported in parts of East and Central Africa.

The ministry, in its updated preparedness statement, said it has activated secondary screening, isolation, and referral mechanisms for travellers presenting symptoms consistent with viral haemorrhagic fevers.

The ministry, however, reassured Nigerians that there is presently no confirmed case of Ebola Virus Disease in Nigeria, but noted that heightened preparedness measures have already been activated nationwide to strengthen national health security and prevent cross-border transmission.

According to the ministry, strict border control and Point of Entry protocols are now operational across the country, including universal temperature screening using non-invasive infrared thermal scanners and handheld thermometers for arriving travellers.

The ministry said inbound passengers are also required to complete Health Declaration Forms and undergo travel history assessments, while enhanced traveller risk assessment and screening procedures have been activated at designated Points of Entry.

It added that it has strengthened coordination with immigration, aviation, maritime and border management authorities.

The ministry further said enhanced Integrated Disease Surveillance and Response activities have been activated nationwide, alongside strengthened event-based and community-based surveillance systems.

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It noted that public health authorities are actively monitoring, verifying and investigating public health alerts and rumours. At the same time, continuous national risk assessment and epidemiological monitoring are ongoing in coordination with regional and international public health partners.

On laboratory and emergency response readiness, the ministry said specimen collection and transportation systems for viral haemorrhagic diseases have been strengthened, while laboratory biosafety and biosecurity protocols are being reinforced.

It added that Public Health Emergency Operations Centres have been activated and coordinated nationwide, while Rapid Response Teams at national and sub-national levels remain on deployment readiness.

The ministry also said Infection Prevention and Control measures have been reinforced across health facilities, with ongoing sensitisation and preparedness training for healthcare workers, surveillance officers and frontline personnel. Healthcare facilities nationwide have also been advised to maintain a high index of suspicion for viral haemorrhagic fevers, strengthen triage systems, promptly isolate suspected cases and adhere strictly to established reporting protocols.

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The ministry urged Nigerians to remain calm, avoid misinformation and unverified rumours, and rely only on official updates issued by recognised public health authorities.

It also advised members of the public to maintain regular hand hygiene, avoid direct contact with bodily fluids of symptomatic individuals, avoid contact with dead animals or bushmeat from unknown sources, and promptly report unusual illnesses or deaths to the nearest health authority or healthcare facility.

The ministry said it would continue to monitor developments and provide timely updates as necessary.

It added that all Ebola preparedness advisories, protocols and technical guidance documents are available on the ministry’s official website.