Nigeria on High Alert as Ebola Zaire Claims 15 Lives in DR Congo

The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) has issued a public health advisory in response to a fresh Ebola Zaire outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), which has killed 15 people, including four health workers, out of 28 suspected cases as of 4 September 2025.


NCDC Director-General, Dr. Jide Idris, assured Nigerians that there are currently no confirmed cases in Nigeria, but stressed that the country has been placed on high alert. Measures are being stepped up, including heightened surveillance at entry points, healthcare facility monitoring, and community outreach to curb possible spread.


The advisory highlights that the affected regions in the DRC, Bulape and Mweka health zones in Kasai Province, are experiencing symptoms such as fever, vomiting, diarrhoea and bleeding. Tests conducted at the National Institute of Biomedical Research in Kinshasa confirmed the Ebola Zaire strain, with a fatality rate estimated at 57%.


The NCDC reminded the public that there is an approved vaccine (Ervebo) against the Zaire strain, and continues to collaborate with ministries, agencies and international partners to keep Nigeria protected.


Key recommendations are as follows. Avoid all but essential travel to countries with Ebola outbreaks. Anyone with recent travel to affected areas who develops symptoms like fever, muscle pain, bleeding, or gastrointestinal symptoms should immediately call the toll-free number 6232 or their state health hotline.


Individuals must practice strict hand hygiene, steer clear of contact with symptomatic persons, avoid bushmeat, and handle animals only with protective gear.


As efforts to contain the DRC outbreak intensify, with the WHO and the DRC's rapid response teams mobilised, the NCDC pledges to remain vigilant and transparent in keeping Nigerians informed.

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