Laraba MUREY
The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention has issued an alert after a fresh Ebola outbreak was confirmed in the Democratic Republic of Congo.
The DRC’s Ministry of Health said 28 suspected cases and 15 deaths, including four health workers, have been recorded in Kasai Province. Tests in Kinshasa confirmed the deadly Zaire strain of the virus.
NCDC Director-General, Dr. Jide Idris, in a public health advisory on Saturday, explained that although no case has been detected in Nigeria, the agency has stepped up surveillance at airports, land borders and health facilities across the country
“He said, “We are working with the World Health Organization (WHO) and other partners to strengthen our preparedness. Nigerians should remain calm but adhere strictly to preventive measures such as regular hand washing, avoiding contact with infected persons and safe handling of animals.”
He urged citizens to be vigilant. “Anyone with fever, vomiting, diarrhoea or unexplained bleeding after travelling to affected countries must report immediately. Do not hide cases. Early detection saves lives.”
On travel, the NCDC boss advised ,“Avoid non-essential trips to affected countries. If you recently returned and develop symptoms, call our hotline and isolate yourself until we arrive.”
Health workers were also warned to take extra caution. “Doctors and nurses must use protective gear and report suspected cases without delay,” Idris added.
The World Health Organization has deployed a rapid response team to the DRC to help contain the outbreak, which currently has a fatality rate of 57 percent.
Ebola, which spreads through contact with body fluids of infected people or animals, has killed thousands in past outbreaks across Africa.
