The number of people being monitored for possible exposure to Ebola in Nigeria has risen to 53, as health authorities intensify efforts to contain the outbreak in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC), in its Ebola Disease Situation Report dated October 24, 2026, said the national Incident Management System had been activated at the highest level to coordinate contact tracing, surveillance, laboratory testing and infection prevention measures.
According to the report, the confirmed case involves a 42-year-old woman who returned from Uganda through Addis Ababa on October 3 and arrived in Abuja on an international flight.
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The woman reportedly developed symptoms on October 7 and sought medical attention at a private health facility on October 10 before being admitted to another private facility the following day.
The NCDC said it was notified of the suspected case on October 19, prompting an investigation and the collection of samples for laboratory analysis.
The National Reference Laboratory confirmed the infection on October 20, identifying the virus as the Bundibugyo species of Ebola.
The patient, who presented with fever, diarrhoea, generalised body aches and sore throat, remains in isolation and is receiving medical care. The agency said her condition had improved significantly, with no bleeding reported.
The 53 identified contacts include healthcare workers, domestic staff and the patient’s spouse. Contact tracing and monitoring are ongoing, with authorities assessing exposure levels to determine appropriate follow-up measures.
Meanwhile, a suspected Ebola case reported by Rivers State on October 23 tested negative following laboratory analysis, the NCDC said.
The agency added that surveillance had been strengthened at the country’s points of entry, while health facilities were receiving support to improve infection prevention and control.
Other measures include public awareness campaigns and the distribution of personal protective equipment and essential medical supplies.
The report also disclosed that 500 donated laboratory testing kits had been added to the national stockpile, while the University of Abuja Teaching Hospital had been assessed and prepared as an isolation and treatment centre.
The NCDC urged Nigerians to remain calm and vigilant, practise regular hand hygiene and avoid contact with the blood and body fluids of suspected Ebola patients.
It advised anyone experiencing symptoms following possible exposure to contact public health authorities before visiting a health facility.
The agency also warned against spreading rumours or stigmatising suspected cases and their contacts, urging the public to rely on official information and cooperate with contact tracers.
Members of the public can call the NCDC toll-free line on 6232 for verified information and guidance on Ebola prevention and response.
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