The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) has issued a public health advisory following the confirmation of an Ebola Virus Disease (EVD) outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).
The DRC’s Ministry of Health reported that 28 suspected cases and 15 deaths, including four health workers, have been recorded in Kasai Province as of September 4, 2025.
The outbreak, affecting the Bulape and Mweka health zones, has been linked to the Ebola Zaire strain, confirmed by the National Institute of Biomedical Research in Kinshasa.
Although the estimated mortality rate currently stands at 57%, the DRC has activated its Public Health Emergency Operations Centre and deployed a rapid response team with support from the World Health Organization (WHO) to contain the outbreak.
The NCDC stressed that there are no cases of Ebola in Nigeria but assured that surveillance has been heightened at borders, airports, and health facilities nationwide.
It added that risk communication systems are on alert to provide accurate information and counter misinformation.
Dr. Jide Idris, Director General of NCDC, urged Nigerians to take preventive measures seriously:
Wash hands regularly with soap and water or use hand sanitizers.
Avoid contact with people showing symptoms of Ebola-like illness.
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Cook animal products thoroughly before consumption and avoid contact with bats or primates.
Stay away from bodily fluids of suspected or confirmed Ebola patients.
Healthcare workers were also reminded to maintain strict infection prevention and control protocols, including the use of personal protective equipment (PPE), and to report any suspected cases promptly.
The advisory further cautioned Nigerians against all but essential travel to countries with confirmed Ebola cases.
Travellers returning from affected regions who develop symptoms such as fever, vomiting, diarrhoea, or unexplained bleeding have been advised to call the NCDC toll-free line 6232 or their State Ministry of Health hotline immediately.
The NCDC assured that Nigeria continues to strengthen its preparedness, working with local and international partners, while also managing other outbreaks like Lassa fever, meningitis, diphtheria, and measles.