*The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention issues a number of guidelines to prevent the residents from contracting the disease while safeguarding public health in the country
Emmanuel Akosile | ConsumerConnect
Following the recent detection of an index case of the Bundibugyo strain of the Ebola virus in Abuja, FCT, the Federal Government through the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC), has issued a number of guidelines to prevent contracting the disease, and safeguard public health in the country.
ConsumerConnect reports the NCDC has described Ebola as a disease that spreads through direct contact with the blood or bodily fluids of an infected person or animal.
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Sequel to the confirmation of the first case in the FCT, below are facts on transmission/causes, symptoms, and how to protect yourself and loved ones.
How does it spread?
Ebola can be spread through direct contact with blood, sweat, saliva, vomit, or other bodily fluids of an infected, symptomatic person touching contaminated surfaces, such as clothing, bedding, or other materials contaminated with fluids from an infected individual
Consuming infected wild animals, handling deceased bodies without safety gear.
What are the symptoms?
Symptoms typically appear two to 21 days after exposure.
The symptoms include:
- Fever
- Vomitting
- Headache
- Diarrhea
- Weakness/Fatigue
- Bleeding
- Muscle pain
- Sore throat
How to protect yourself
Wash hands regularly with clean running water and soap, or use alcohol-based sanitiser.
Avoid contact with dead bodies and wild animals.
Ensure all meat products are handled hygienically and thoroughly cooked.
Do not touch bodily fluids of sick individuals or handle deceased bodies without professional health protocols.
Health workers should adhere strictly to Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) standards.
Myth vs facts of Ebola virus
Myth: Ebola spreads via casual contact (handshake, hugging).
Fact: Ebola does not spread through casual contact.
It requires direct contact with the bodily fluids of an infected person.
Myth: Ebola spreads through food and water.
Fact: Ebola does not spread through food and water, but all foods should be thoroughly cooked. Drink clean water always.
Myth: Ebola spreads through the air.
Fact: Ebola is not an airborne virus. Transmission strictly requires direct physical contact with bodily fluids or contaminated objects from a person showing active symptoms.
Myth: Healthcare facilities are not safe during outbreaks.
Fact: Healthcare facilities are strengthening infection prevention and control measures, including triage systems, hand hygiene, use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPEs), and isolation procedures to protect patients and healthcare workers.
Nigerians are urged to stay informed, and avoid panic.
Spreading unverified rumours causes unnecessary fear and hampers response efforts. Always rely on official health updates, authorities advised.