The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) has confirmed that two recent suspected cases of viral haemorrhagic fever in Abuja have tested negative for Ebola and Marburg viruses.
The latest case involved a traveller who returned from Kigali, Rwanda, and developed symptoms shortly after arrival in the country. According to the agency, the patient voluntarily reported at a hospital in Abuja, a move the NCDC described as “highly commendable” for helping to trigger a swift response and reducing potential risks.
In a statement signed by its Director-General, Dr. Jide Idris, on Friday, the NCDC said further investigations are ongoing to determine whether the illnesses could be linked to other viral haemorrhagic fevers such as Lassa fever and dengue fever.
“This responsible action is highly commendable and a good practice all Nigerians are urged to emulate. When you feel unwell, especially after travel, seek care early. Doing so protects you, your family, and your community,” Idris said.
The agency applauded the quick intervention of clinicians at Nisa Premier Hospital, Abuja, as well as the FCT Epidemiology and Rapid Response Teams, Port Health Services, the National Reference Laboratory, and other partners who collaborated to avert public health panic.
Idris disclosed that following reports of Ebola outbreaks in other countries, the NCDC had carried out a risk assessment and rolled out preventive measures nationwide.
These include enhanced surveillance at points of entry, improved readiness of isolation and treatment centres, prepositioning of infection-prevention supplies, and laboratory preparedness for rapid testing.
He urged state governments to ensure their isolation facilities remain functional, while healthcare workers must maintain a high index of suspicion, enforce strict infection prevention protocols, and report any unusual cases promptly.
The agency explained that Ebola Virus Disease (EVD) remains a serious threat, with fatality rates ranging between 25 and 90 percent, and is spread through contact with infected animals or the body fluids of infected humans.
It therefore advised Nigerians to maintain proper hand hygiene, avoid contact with persons showing symptoms such as unexplained fever, bleeding, vomiting or diarrhoea, and steer clear of fruit bats, monkeys and apes which are known carriers.
The NCDC further warned against spreading rumours and urged citizens to rely only on verified updates from official health channels.
The agency noted that this was the second suspected Ebola case in Abuja within one week, both of which returned negative results.
“These recent events are a reminder that the vigilance of one clinician, the responsibility of one patient, and the cooperation of all stakeholders can protect millions,” Idris said.
The NCDC reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding public health while calling on Nigerians to remain alert, adopt safe practices, and support national preparedness efforts.
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