Nigeria has recorded its first Ebola case in more than a decade, becoming the latest country affected by a fast-growing outbreak that has already spread across parts of Central, East and now West Africa. Health officials say the outbreak, which began in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) in May, has caused thousands of infections and deaths, making it one of the largest Ebola emergencies in recent years.
According to Nigerian authorities, the confirmed case involves a woman who arrived in Abuja from Uganda via Ethiopia on October 5. She reportedly developed symptoms two days later and initially sought treatment for what appeared to be malaria. Further investigations and laboratory testing later confirmed she was infected with Ebola.
The patient is receiving treatment in isolation, while health officials have launched contact tracing efforts. Authorities say 44 contacts have so far been identified, including healthcare workers and family members. Officials are also tracing passengers who travelled on the same flights as the patient.
The outbreak is linked to the Bundibugyo strain of the Ebola virus, which currently has no approved vaccine or specific treatment. Since the outbreak was declared in the DRC, cases have also been reported in Uganda and Kenya.
Public health experts have warned that the virus’ spread from East Africa into West Africa increases the risk of wider regional transmission. The Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention has called for stronger political leadership, increased surveillance and additional resources to prevent further cross-border spread.
Nigeria previously won international praise for quickly containing an Ebola outbreak in 2014. Health officials say the country is activating existing emergency response systems and monitoring identified contacts to prevent further transmission.
Source: Africafeeds.com
