Ebola Outbreak No Reason to Cancel Campaigns, Public Gatherings, Says Minister

The Federal Government has advised Nigerians against panic over the confirmed Ebola case in the Federal Capital Territory, maintaining that existing public health measures are focused on containing the infection and preventing further transmission.

The Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Muhammad Ali Pate, said the country had the public health institutions and experience required to manage the situation, recalling Nigeria’s successful response to the 2014 Ebola outbreak.

The minister’s position comes amid concerns about whether political campaigns and other public gatherings should be suspended following the confirmation of the imported case.

Nigeria confirmed Ebola in a woman who recently travelled from Uganda and received treatment at a private hospital in Abuja before her infection was established through laboratory testing. She was subsequently placed in isolation and contact tracing began.

Health authorities identified 44 contacts for monitoring as part of efforts to prevent further spread. The Federal Government has also intensified surveillance and coordinated its response with relevant agencies and international health partners.

Pate has urged Nigerians to remain vigilant without spreading misinformation or creating unnecessary alarm. He said the government would continue to provide updates as investigations and containment efforts progress.

Ebola spreads through direct contact with the blood or other body fluids of an infected person, or contaminated materials. People who have not developed symptoms do not transmit the virus, while the incubation period can range from two to 21 days.

The government has advised the public to maintain good hand hygiene, avoid contact with the body fluids of suspected cases and follow guidance from authorised health officials. Healthcare facilities have also been directed to strengthen infection prevention measures and promptly report suspected infections.

Authorities continue to monitor the situation as Nigeria works to contain the case and reduce the risk of community transmission.