By Jessica Osajie / Posted January 3, 2025
The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) has issued a red alert following the confirmation of an Ebola Virus Disease (EVD) outbreak in Uganda.
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In January 30, the Ugandan Ministry of Health reported an outbreak caused by the Sudan species of the virus in Wakiso, Mukono, and Mbale City in Mbale district.o date, there has been one confirmed case and one death, with 44 contacts under monitoring.
Dr. Jide Idris, the Director General of NCDC, stated that the agency has activated its systems and is closely monitoring both regional and global developments.e acknowledged Uganda’s experience in managing Ebola outbreaks and noted that appropriate measures are being implemented.
Regarding vaccines, Dr. Idris mentioned that while vaccines and treatments are available for certain strains of the Ebola virus, the approved vaccine for the Zaire species is not currently available in Nigeria.his vaccine, obtainable through the World Health Organization’s African Regional Office, does not provide protection against the Sudan virus strain responsible for the current outbreak in Uganda.
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Nigeria’s previous encounter with Ebola occurred in July 2014, when a Liberian-American traveler introduced the virus into Lagos.he individual fell ill upon arrival and succumbed to the disease five days later, leading to a swift response to contain the spread.
The NCDC emphasizes the importance of heightened vigilance and adherence to preventive measures to mitigate the risk of Ebola transmission.
Idris insisted that early recognition, isolation of patients, initiation of supportive treatment, implementing infection and control measures in health facilities and homes, tracing and monitoring of contacts, and safe burial practices, significantly reduce morbidity and the probability of death.
Healthcare workers have been advised to maintain a high level of vigilance to as they interact infected patients, during management of suspected or confirmed cases of EVD, ensuring strict isolation of the patient.
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Furthermore, the NCDC boss, requested individuals with recent travel history in the last 21 days, to or transit through countries with Ebola cases to submit for screening by NCDC or contact the Health ministry through the provided hot lines, especially if they are experiencing symptoms such as fever, muscle pain, sore throat, diarrhea, weakness, vomiting, stomach pain, or unexplained bleeding or bruising.
NOTE: Jessica is on Student Industrial Work Experience Scheme (SIWES) at DDNEWSONLINE.COM from the Department of Mass Communication, National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN).