NCDC Alerts Nigeria on Ebola Outbreak in Uganda, Calls for Vigilance

By Fatima Saka

The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) has issued an alert on the Ebola Virus Disease (EVD) outbreak in Uganda, urging Nigerians to remain vigilant and adhere to preventive measures.

This follows a Public Health Advisory released on Sunday by Dr. Jide Idris, Director General of the NCDC.

Ebola Outbreak in Uganda

On January 30, 2025, Uganda’s Ministry of Health confirmed an EVD outbreak caused by the Sudan strain in Wakiso, Mukono, and Mbale City (Mbale District). So far:

One confirmed case

One fatality (confirmed post-mortem)

44 contacts under monitoring

Uganda has extensive experience in handling Ebola outbreaks, and response measures have been activated.

Ebola Situation in Nigeria

Currently, no cases of EVD have been reported in Nigeria. However, the NCDC, in collaboration with relevant authorities and partners, has intensified surveillance, preparedness, and response efforts through the National Emerging Viral Hemorrhagic Diseases (EVHD) Technical Working Group.

Measures taken include:

Updating EVD emergency contingency plans.

Enhancing surveillance at entry points (airports, land borders).

Strengthening EVD testing in designated laboratories.

Activating Lassa fever testing laboratories for rapid scale-up if needed.

Understanding Ebola Virus Disease

EVD, formerly Ebola Hemorrhagic Fever, is a severe and often fatal disease with a fatality rate of 25%–90%. There are five species of the virus:

Zaire (most deadly, responsible for major outbreaks like West Africa’s 2014–2016 epidemic).

Sudan (causing the current outbreak in Uganda).

Bundibugyo, Tai Forest, and Reston.

Transmission

EVD spreads through:

Human-to-human contact via body fluids (blood, saliva, urine, feces, vomit, semen, breast milk).

Contaminated objects and surfaces.

Infected animals such as fruit bats, chimpanzees, gorillas, monkeys, porcupines, and forest antelopes.

Unsafe burial practices involving infected corpses.

The incubation period is 2 to 21 days, with health workers, caregivers, and close contacts at highest risk.

Symptoms

Sudden high fever, headache, muscle pain, weakness, vomiting, and diarrhea.

Jaundice (yellowing of the eyes).

In severe cases, uncontrolled bleeding, organ failure, shock, and death.

Fatal cases typically lead to death within 8–9 days of symptom onset.

Risk Assessment

Ebola and Marburg viruses belong to the Viral Hemorrhagic Fever (VHF) family. Given the recent Marburg outbreak in Rwanda, NCDC classifies EVD risk in Nigeria as MODERATE. Without strict preventive measures, an outbreak could occur with severe public health consequences.

NCDC’s Advisory to Nigerians

There is no approved vaccine for the Sudan strain of Ebola (causing Uganda’s outbreak). However, preventive steps are crucial:

Practice good hand hygiene – Wash hands with soap under running water or use hand sanitizers.

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Avoid physical contact with individuals showing unknown infectious symptoms.

Avoid consuming bush meat, especially bats and primates (known Ebola reservoirs). If consumed, ensure thorough cooking.

Avoid direct contact with bodily fluids of suspected or confirmed cases.

Report symptoms immediately if you or someone you know recently traveled to an affected country and develops fever, weakness, vomiting, or unexplained bleeding. Call 6232 or your State Ministry of Health hotline.

Advice to Healthcare Workers

Healthcare workers should maintain high suspicion for EVD and:

Isolate suspected cases immediately.

Strictly follow infection prevention protocols (wear PPE: masks, gloves, gowns).

Report cases promptly to the NCDC or State Ministry of Health.

Travel Advisory

While the WHO does not recommend travel restrictions, NCDC advises Nigerians to avoid non-essential travel to EVD-affected countries.

If you recently traveled to an affected country and experience symptoms, you should:

Call 6232 or State Ministry of Health hotlines for assessment.

Stay home to prevent possible spread.

Wait for health officials to assess and transport you if necessary.

The NCDC is strengthening nationwide surveillance, particularly at borders and airports, and coordinating with WHO and regional health authorities for real-time updates.

Other Disease Outbreaks in Nigeria

Nigeria is also managing outbreaks of Lassa fever, meningitis, diphtheria, Mpox, measles, and anthrax. The NCDC will continue to provide updates on these public health threats.

Contact NCDC

Facebook & Instagram: @NCDCGov