The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) has introduced new measures for travellers entering Nigeria in response to the ongoing Ebola Virus Disease (EVD) outbreak in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). According to the NCDC, these measures aim to enhance surveillance and preparedness, ensuring Nigeria's response remains proportionate to identified risks. The agency made this announcement in a statement on Tuesday, following consultations with public health experts and the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare.
Travellers from countries with active or relevant EVD transmission may be required to complete Health Declaration Forms to support enhanced surveillance measures. This move is part of Nigeria's efforts to strengthen border health measures amid evolving epidemiological conditions. The NCDC emphasized that passengers arriving from countries with active EVD transmission may face these requirements to facilitate risk assessment, contact follow-up, and early detection of cases.
The NCDC's advisory follows the evolving epidemiological situation in the DRC, prompting Nigeria to review public health measures based on dynamic risk assessment and consultations. Passengers travelling from all other countries are currently exempt from completing the Health Declaration Form, reflecting the agency's risk-based approach. This approach aims to ensure that Nigeria's preparedness and response measures are proportionate to the identified risks.
The implementation of these measures involves collaboration among various stakeholders, including the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria, Port Health Services, Nigeria Immigration Service, and Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority. State health ministries are also part of the coordinated action, while international partners, including the World Health Organization and Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention, continue to support preparedness and response efforts.
The NCDC has urged the public to remain vigilant for symptoms consistent with Ebola Virus Disease, particularly travellers who may have had exposure. The agency encourages anyone developing symptoms to seek medical attention promptly. Individuals with relevant travel or exposure history are advised to provide accurate information to healthcare workers and authorities, emphasizing that timely reporting and follow-up are crucial components of surveillance and response.
Preparatory activities are ongoing in line with the evolving epidemiological situation, and measures will be reviewed as epidemiological information becomes available and Nigeria's risk assessment is updated. The NCDC reaffirmed its commitment to protecting Nigerians through evidence-based surveillance, preparedness, and response measures, while working with national and international partners to strengthen capacity to detect and respond to health threats.
The agency's efforts to enhance surveillance and preparedness come as Nigeria continues to monitor and respond to various public health threats. The NCDC's collaboration with stakeholders and international partners underscores the importance of a coordinated approach to addressing health security challenges. By introducing these measures, the NCDC aims to ensure that Nigeria remains prepared to detect and respond to potential EVD cases.
Key points
- Travellers from countries with active Ebola transmission may be required to complete Health Declaration Forms.
- The measures aim to enhance surveillance and preparedness, ensuring Nigeria's response remains proportionate to identified risks.
- The NCDC's advisory follows the evolving epidemiological situation in the Democratic Republic of the Congo.
