By Elizabeth Olagoke Abai
A medical expert has assured Nigerians that there is no confirmed case of Ebola Virus Disease (EVD) in the country despite reported outbreaks in the Republic of the Congo and Uganda, urging citizens to remain calm while observing recommended preventive measures.
The Senior Registrar in Family Medicine at the Lagos State University Teaching Hospital (LASUTH), Ikeja, Mr. Damilare Shoyemi, gave the assurance during The Talk Programme on Radio One 103.5 FM on May 26, 2026.
Shoyemi said Nigerian health authorities had already activated surveillance and preventive measures to protect the country from a possible outbreak, stressing that public cooperation remains essential to keeping the virus out.
He explained that Ebola is an epidemic rather than a pandemic, noting that an epidemic refers to a disease that spreads within a specific region or population. He added that although outbreaks had been reported in parts of Africa, there was no confirmed case of the disease in Nigeria at the time.
“We are only as safe as the preventive measures put in place to protect us,” he said, calling for strict screening of travellers arriving from affected countries and vigilance within communities.
According to him, Ebola can spread through direct contact with the bodily fluids of infected persons or infected animals. He warned against poor hygiene practices and advised Nigerians to avoid contact with rodents, including rats and mice, as well as bush meat such as bats and gorillas, which may carry the virus.
The physician urged members of the public to store food properly in tightly covered containers, avoid eating food contaminated by rodents, and dampen floors before sweeping to reduce the spread of contaminated particles.
He also identified persistent headaches, fever, and body pains as possible symptoms of Ebola and advised anyone experiencing such symptoms, particularly after travelling from affected areas, to seek immediate medical attention.
Shoyemi reiterated that Nigeria’s health authorities remain on alert and are prepared to respond to any suspected case. He urged Nigerians to support government efforts by maintaining proper hygiene, washing their hands regularly, keeping their environment clean, and promoting public awareness on measures to prevent the spread of infectious diseases.
