NCDC Places Nigeria on High Alert Over Ebola Outbreak in DR Congo

The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) has placed Nigeria on high alert following an update on the ongoing Ebola Virus Disease (EVD) outbreak in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC).

The Director-General of the NCDC, Jide Idris, disclosed this in a health advisory, noting that preparatory activities were underway to strengthen the country’s readiness to respond to any potential threat.

Idris said the measures would be reviewed continuously in line with the evolving epidemiological situation and public health risk assessments.

As part of enhanced surveillance, the NCDC advised travellers arriving from countries with active or relevant EVD transmission to complete the Health Declaration Form and comply with prescribed follow-up measures.

“Passengers from all other countries are exempted from completing the form at this time,” the advisory stated.

The Centre also urged Nigerians to remain vigilant for symptoms associated with Ebola Virus Disease and seek medical attention promptly if they develop any signs of the infection.

It further advised members of the public to disclose relevant travel or exposure history to health officials where applicable.

According to the NCDC, the advisory followed a dynamic risk assessment and consultations with public health experts and the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare.

The Centre reaffirmed its commitment to protecting Nigerians through evidence-based surveillance, preparedness and response to public health threats.

Meanwhile, the Democratic Republic of the Congo had recorded 7,672 confirmed Ebola cases, including 3,699 deaths, as of September 20, 2026, based on data up to September 19.

The latest update showed that 886 patients were hospitalised in isolation, representing an increase of 58 confirmed cases and 23 deaths from the previous report issued on September 19.

The 58 new cases were reported across four provinces: Ituri recorded 38 cases, North Kivu 14, Haut-Uélé five and Tshopo one.

The report also stated that 1,879 people who tested positive for the Bundibugyo virus had recovered.

It added that 79.9 per cent of identified contacts of confirmed cases were under follow-up in the affected provinces.

Since the previous European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) report of September 18, a further 197 confirmed cases and 94 deaths had been reported.