The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) has officially debunked rumors of an Ebola outbreak in Abuja, reassuring its residents that there is no confirmed case of the deadly disease within the territory. This definitive declaration came after a recent suspected case tested negative for both Ebola and Marburg diseases, effectively putting an end to widespread concerns.

Dr. Adedolapo Fasawe, the Mandate Secretary of the FCTA Health Secretariat, made the announcement during a joint press briefing with officials from the Association of Resident Doctors (ARD). This briefing also served as the platform for the ARD to declare the suspension of their ongoing strike, signaling a united front in public health efforts. Dr. Fasawe stated with authority, “Ebola is not in the FCT. Confirmed and verified, and I can say that with authority. Ebola disease is not here, but if it comes here, FCT is ready with all necessary tools. We are ready, we are prepared, and the system is in place.”

The Mandate Secretary lauded “Patient X” for demonstrating exemplary responsible health-seeking behavior. The patient, who arrived from Rwanda—a country bordering Congo where Ebola has been confirmed—went directly to a hospital upon experiencing fever, rather than returning home. Nisa Premier Hospital was also commended for its swift and appropriate action, exhibiting a high index of suspicion, isolating the patient, and diligently following established protocols. “The patient did the right thing by coming to the hospital. The hospital also did the right thing by having a high index of suspicion, isolating the patient, and following the protocols,” Dr. Fasawe emphasized.

Explaining the rigorous process, Dr. Fasawe revealed that due to the patient’s travel history, FCTA immediately activated its protocol for Ebola. The extensive tests confirmed that the individual was negative for Ebola and Marburg disease, both of which are viral hemorrhagic fevers capable of causing rapid deterioration and death. She stressed the administration’s commitment to leaving no stone unturned, detailing how they tracked the airline manifest and isolated potential contacts to prevent any possible spread. “We had a possible one case that we were determined would not spread further than that one case, and I’m happy to say we are sailing free,” she added.

In light of the scare, Dr. Fasawe urged FCT residents to cultivate improved health habits and remain vigilant. She cautioned against assuming all fevers are malaria, highlighting that symptoms such as fever accompanied by bleeding from any body orifice (nose, ears, etc.) constitute a medical emergency requiring immediate reporting to the nearest health center. She reiterated, “Every fever is not malaria. If you have any sign of illness, especially with fever or bleeding from any orifice, it is a very big emergency. Report to the nearest health center.”

The FCTA is also strengthening border surveillance in collaboration with the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) to prevent the importation of such diseases. Private hospitals were encouraged to emulate Nisa Premier Hospital’s commitment to strictly following infectious disease protocols. Dr. Fasawe also informed the public about readily available resources, including the state epidemiologist, emergency operating centers, toll-free numbers, and social media handles, all designed to facilitate adherence to health protocols.

This incident, though unsettling, served to underscore the FCTA’s robust preparedness. Dr. Fasawe confirmed that this was not the first suspected case handled by the FCTA this year, but assured that residents remain safe due to the stringent protocols in place. “FCT is equipped with the facilities, human resources, and the systems to handle health care. Very soon, FCT doctors will be the best remunerated in the country. The Minister has also approved more health care workers to be employed. FCT is ready. We are prepared. The systems are there,” she concluded, reinforcing the administration’s dedication to public health and safety.