By Peace Udugba -The Daily Torch Media
Nigeria has confirmed an imported case of Bundibugyo Ebola virus disease in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), prompting health authorities to intensify surveillance and contact tracing to prevent further transmission.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), the confirmed case involves a woman with a recent travel history to Uganda. She developed symptoms on October 7, four days after arriving in Nigeria, and sought medical attention at a private health facility in Abuja on October 11.
Laboratory tests confirmed the infection on October 20, 2026. The patient is currently isolated and receiving medical care.
The Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare reported that 44 contacts had been identified and were being monitored as part of efforts to establish the extent of possible exposure and prevent additional infections.
Investigations are ongoing to determine the likely source of the infection and reconstruct the patient’s travel history and potential exposure.
The case is linked to the wider Bundibugyo Ebola outbreak that began in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and has spread to other countries, raising concerns about cross-border transmission.
The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) had earlier strengthened the country’s preparedness through enhanced surveillance, laboratory testing, contact tracing, infection prevention and control measures, and coordination with relevant health authorities.
With the confirmation of the imported case, health officials are expected to sustain these measures while monitoring identified contacts and investigating any additional suspected cases.
Nigerians are advised to remain calm, practise good hand hygiene, avoid contact with the blood and other body fluids of suspected or confirmed cases, and rely on verified information from official public health authorities.
The latest development underscores the importance of early detection, prompt medical attention and effective contact tracing in containing the spread of Ebola virus disease.
Health authorities continue to monitor the situation as investigations and response activities progress.
Tags: Ebola in Nigeria, Bundibugyo Ebola virus, NCDC, WHO, Abuja, public health, disease surveillance
