By Stephen Simon
Nigeria’s response to its first confirmed case of Ebola Bundibugyo virus has intensified following fresh concerns over the patient’s diagnosis, condition and possible source of infection.
The 42-year-old woman, identified by the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) as the wife of a diplomat, returned to Abuja on October 3 after travelling to Uganda. She developed symptoms days later and was initially treated for suspected malaria before being admitted to a private hospital on October 11.
The infection was confirmed on October 20, prompting contact tracing and heightened surveillance.
The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) reportedly said on Wednesday that the patient’s condition had worsened, with multiple organ failure. However, Health Minister Muhammad Pate subsequently told the BBC that she was stable and improving.
Authorities have identified 44 contacts, including healthcare workers, patients, caregivers and travel contacts. The minister said those identified would remain isolated for three weeks while monitoring continues.
The source of the infection remains uncertain. While the patient travelled through Uganda, Ugandan authorities disputed suggestions that she contracted the virus there, citing a different account of her travel history involving eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo.
The World Health Organisation has urged Nigerians to remain calm, stressing that one imported case does not automatically constitute an outbreak.
Health authorities are continuing investigations, contact tracing and infection-control measures to prevent further transmission.
The Bundibugyo strain has no approved vaccine or specific treatment.
