Ebola Outbreak Raises Concern as Nigeria Strengthens Surveillance

 Ebola Is Back in Africa: Nigeria Raises Alert as Deadly Outbreak Spreads in DR Congo

Ebola virus 

The Ebola virus has returned to the headlines following a rapidly expanding outbreak in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), prompting renewed public-health concern across Africa and increased preparedness measures in Nigeria.

The current outbreak is caused by the Bundibugyo virus, a type of Ebola virus. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), the outbreak in the DRC has continued to expand geographically, with cases reported across seven provinces. As of September 23, 2026, the country had recorded 7,890 confirmed cases and 3,799 deaths, giving a reported case-fatality ratio of 48.1 percent.

The outbreak has become particularly concerning because of its continued geographical expansion and the possibility of cross-border transmission. WHO reported that two additional health zones were recently affected, including one in Sud-Ubangi province and another in Haut-Uélé province near South Sudan.

Nigeria has responded by strengthening surveillance and preparedness measures. The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) has placed the country on heightened alert and introduced enhanced monitoring for travellers arriving from countries with relevant Ebola transmission.

According to a public-health advisory issued by the NCDC, some travellers may be required to complete a health declaration form. The information collected can include countries visited during the previous 21 days, travel routes, destination in Nigeria and possible symptoms. State surveillance teams may also conduct follow-up during the 21-day monitoring period.

However, Nigerians should distinguish between heightened preparedness and an outbreak inside Nigeria. The Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare previously stated that there was no confirmed Ebola case in Nigeria while announcing measures to strengthen laboratory readiness, surveillance, infection prevention and border health monitoring.

Health authorities are urging members of the public to remain vigilant but avoid panic and misinformation. Ebola can cause symptoms including fever, weakness, headache, muscle pain, vomiting, diarrhoea and, in severe cases, unexplained bleeding or bruising. People who develop concerning symptoms, particularly after relevant travel or exposure, should seek medical attention promptly and provide healthcare workers with their travel and exposure history.

The WHO continues to coordinate with health authorities and international partners to monitor the outbreak and strengthen surveillance, laboratory testing, infection prevention, patient care and community engagement.

With the situation continuing to evolve, Nigerians are encouraged to rely on updates from the NCDC, Federal Ministry of Health and WHO rather than unverified social-media reports.