Martha Udom
Uyo – The Akwa Ibom State Government has heightened surveillance and placed its Public Health Emergency Operations Centre on alert, following the confirmation of an Ebola case in Abuja.
The Commissioner for Health, Dr. Ekem Emmanuel John, disclosed this in a statement issued on Tuesday, October 21, 2026.
Dr. John said no confirmed case of Ebola Virus Disease has been reported in Akwa Ibom State.
According to him, the heightened alert is a precautionary measure and not a declaration of an outbreak in the state.
He urged residents to remain calm, adhere to verified public health guidance, and cooperate with health personnel.
The development followed the Federal Government’s announcement on October 20 that a woman with recent international travel history tested positive for Ebola in the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja. The patient is currently in isolation and receiving medical care, while 44 close contacts have been identified.
The State Ministry of Health said public and private healthcare facilities across the state are being alerted to promptly identify and report suspected cases and to apply appropriate infection prevention and control measures.
It added that surveillance, rapid notification and investigation are being strengthened through Disease Surveillance and Notification Officers and local government health teams.
Other measures being reviewed include isolation facilities, safe referral and patient transport arrangements, availability of personal protective equipment, and procedures for handling clinical waste safely.
The ministry said it will maintain communication with the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention, federal authorities and relevant partners to ensure timely information sharing and a coordinated response.
It also pledged to provide accurate public information, encourage early reporting, discourage misinformation and protect individuals from stigmatization.
