NCDC TIGHTENS EBOLA SCREENING FOR TRAVELLERS FROM OUTBREAK AREAS

The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention has introduced enhanced screening measures for travellers arriving from countries experiencing active or relevant transmission of Ebola Virus Disease. The agency said such passengers may be required to complete health declaration forms as part of efforts to strengthen surveillance and prevent the importation and possible spread of the disease in Nigeria. The measure was contained in an interim public health advisory issued by the NCDC amid the ongoing Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo.

The NCDC said the decision followed an assessment of the evolving epidemiological situation and consultations with public health experts as well as the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare. According to the agency, travellers from countries with active or relevant Ebola transmission may be asked to complete the Health Declaration Form to support enhanced surveillance and follow-up measures. However, passengers arriving from countries not affected by the current Ebola situation are, for now, exempt from completing the form.

The agency also urged Nigerians and residents to remain alert to symptoms associated with Ebola and seek medical attention promptly if such symptoms develop. It advised people to provide relevant information about recent travel or possible exposure when seeking care, particularly if they have travelled to an affected country or had contact with someone who may have been exposed. The NCDC said the public health measures would be reviewed continuously as the epidemiological situation and assessment of the risk change.

The latest action comes as health authorities continue monitoring the Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo and strengthening preparedness across countries at risk of imported infections. Nigeria has previously heightened surveillance at its borders and points of entry during Ebola outbreaks, while health authorities have also worked to strengthen infection prevention and control measures, laboratory capacity and response systems. The NCDC has maintained that Nigeria has no confirmed Ebola case linked to the current outbreak.

The NCDC said it remains on high alert and is continuing preparedness and response activities to protect the country from potential public health threats. The agency urged Nigerians to rely on verified health information and report suspected symptoms or relevant exposure promptly rather than waiting for illness to worsen. It said surveillance measures at ports of entry and other preparedness activities would remain subject to regular review as authorities monitor developments in countries affected by Ebola.