NCDC Classifies Ebola Importation Risk As High, Intensifies Surveillance In Nigeria

NCDC classifies Ebola importation risk as high, intensifies surveillance in Nigeria The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention NCDC has classified the risk of importation of the Bundibugyo strain of Ebola Virus Disease EVD into Nigeria as high, citing ongoing transmission in parts of East Africa, increased international travel, population movement, and porous borders. The agency said the risk assessment reflects heightened concerns over the possibility of cross-border transmission, even though no confirmed case has been recorded in Nigeria so far. According to the NCDC, Nigeria has not detected any confirmed case of the Bundibugyo strain or other Ebola variants at this time. However, health authorities say the country remains on high alert due to regional outbreaks and mobility patterns across West and Central Africa. Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention said it is strengthening surveillance systems, laboratory readiness, and emergency response capacity to ensure rapid detection and containment in the event of an importation. The agency noted that screening at points of entry, especially airports and land borders, has been intensified as part of broader prevention efforts. Health workers are also being placed on alert to quickly identify and respond to suspected cases. Dr. Idris, a senior official at the NCDC, said preparedness efforts are being scaled up to reduce the risk of spread, particularly given the high level of movement between affected regions and Nigeria. Health authorities highlighted that ongoing transmission in parts of East Africa continues to pose a threat to neighboring countries, especially in regions with high travel volumes and limited border controls. The Bundibugyo strain of Ebola is one of the variants of the virus known to cause severe haemorrhagic fever, with historically high fatality rates in past outbreaks. The NCDC has urged Nigerians to maintain basic hygiene practices, report suspected symptoms early, and avoid unnecessary contact with individuals showing signs of infectious illness.

The agency reaffirmed its commitment to early detection and rapid response as the primary strategy for preventing any outbreak within Nigeria.