The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) has confirmed that two suspected cases of viral hemorrhagic fever in Abuja have tested negative for Ebola virus disease.
The agency also ruled out Marburg virus infection in both cases.
The patients, who had recently traveled from Kigali, Rwanda, reported to health authorities promptly after experiencing fever and other symptoms. Their quick action allowed the NCDC and healthcare workers to respond swiftly and contain any potential public health risk.
Dr. Faisal Shuaib, Director-General of the NCDC, stated, “We commend the patients for seeking medical attention promptly. Their actions, combined with the vigilance of our clinicians, ensured that we could conduct rapid testing and rule out Ebola and Marburg.”
The agency also noted that laboratory investigations are ongoing to determine if the fever may be linked to other viral hemorrhagic fevers such as Lassa fever or dengue fever.
Nisa Premier Hospital, where the cases were initially reported, was praised for its quick response. A spokesperson for the hospital said, “Our clinicians followed all surveillance protocols, ensuring timely notification to the NCDC. This rapid response is vital in protecting public health.”
The NCDC reminded the public to maintain high hygiene standards, report promptly to health facilities if unwell, and avoid panic, emphasizing that the risk of Ebola in the country remains low.