The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) has confirmed that two recent suspected cases of viral haemorrhagic fever in Abuja tested negative for both Ebola Virus Disease and Marburg Virus.
In a public health advisory issued on Friday and signed by its Director-General, Dr. Jide Idris, the agency said further tests are ongoing for other haemorrhagic fevers, including Lassa fever and dengue fever.
The statement came amid public concern and speculation following reports of suspected viral haemorrhagic fever cases in the Federal Capital Territory.
According to the NCDC, people can contract Ebola through contact with infected live or dead animals — usually during butchering, cooking or eating — or through direct contact with the body fluids of infected humans.
“The NCDC wishes to inform the public that two recent suspected cases of viral hemorrhagic fever in Abuja both tested negative for Ebola and Marburg viruses. We are currently testing samples for other viral hemorrhagic fevers like Lassa fever and dengue fever,” the advisory read in part.
The agency commended the individual who promptly reported for medical evaluation and the vigilance of the attending clinician and hospital team, saying their actions ensured a swift public health response and minimised risk to the public.
“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. We deeply commend the clinicians and staff at the Nisa Premier Hospital, Abuja, whose high index of suspicion and immediate reporting triggered a rapid, coordinated response,” NCDC added.
The centre also noted that it has begun collating and analysing relevant data to strengthen its preparedness and response in light of recent reports of Ebola Virus Disease in other countries.
