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Abuja on Edge: Ebola Threat Neutralized as FCTA Gives All-Clear

Published 2 weeks ago3 minute read
Pelumi Ilesanmi
Pelumi Ilesanmi
Abuja on Edge: Ebola Threat Neutralized as FCTA Gives All-Clear

The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Administration has definitively announced that there are no confirmed cases of Ebola or Marburg disease within its borders. This declaration, supported by the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC), followed the negative test results of an index patient who had returned from Rwanda and was suspected of carrying the haemorrhagic virus. Dr. Dolapo Fasawe, Mandate Secretary for Health and Environmental Services, reassured the public and passengers of the Rwanda Air flight that brought the suspect to Abuja, confirming that all individuals traced for Ebola protocol should not harbor any anxiety. She also urged the press to verify information before dissemination, stating with authority that "Ebola is not in FCT. Confirmed, verified, and said with authority."

The FCTA, in close collaboration with the NCDC, is actively working to secure all FCT borders. Directives issued by FCT Minister Nyesom Wike emphasize strengthening port health protocols, enhancing surveillance, and maintaining a high index of suspicion for anyone arriving from countries experiencing epidemics. The NCDC further informed the public that two recent suspected cases of viral hemorrhagic fever in Abuja, including the aforementioned traveler, tested negative for both Ebola and Marburg viruses. Samples are currently being tested for other viral hemorrhagic fevers such as Lassa and Dengue fever.

Both the FCTA and NCDC lauded the responsible actions of the traveler, identified as patient X, for seeking medical care immediately upon feeling unwell after arriving in Abuja. This proactive step, coupled with the vigilance of Nisa Premier Hospital staff who promptly activated public health protocols by calling the FCT Health and Environmental Services to take samples and isolate the patient, was crucial in minimizing potential risks. The NCDC commended clinicians and staff at Nisa Premier Hospital, FCT Epidemiology and Rapid Response Teams, Port Health Services, the National Reference Laboratory, airline and immigration partners, and other stakeholders for their swift and coordinated response, which exemplifies the strength of Nigeria’s preparedness system.

As part of ongoing response strategies, the NCDC is collating and analyzing data to improve future responses. A Dynamic Risk Assessment has been conducted following global reports of Ebola, leading to the nationwide implementation of anticipatory measures. These include multidisciplinary collaboration with federal and state health authorities, enhanced surveillance at points of entry, alerting isolation and treatment facilities, and prepositioning critical infection prevention and case management supplies.

In a separate but equally significant development for the FCT, resident doctors have officially called off their indefinite strike. This decision came after FCT Minister Nyesom Wike approved all their demands, which included addressing unpaid arrears. Dr. George Ebong, President of the National Association of Resident Doctors, announced the suspension of the strike, expressing gratitude to the Minister and all who facilitated the resolution, including the Minister of Labour who intervened in the discussions. The Congress voted to suspend the industrial action, marking an end to the protracted dispute.

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