Africa CDC Calls for Global Support After Nigeria's Ebola Case

The Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) has urgently requested international support to manage the Ebola Bundibugyo outbreak following Nigeria's confirmation of its first case in the Federal Capital Territory. Dr Jean Kaseya, the Director-General of Africa CDC, made this appeal on October 20, 2026, after discussions with Nigeria’s Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Muhammad Pate.

The confirmed case involves a woman who traveled from Uganda, developed symptoms on October 7, sought treatment on October 11, and was confirmed positive on October 20. Nigeria's health authorities have identified 44 contacts and initiated contact tracing while the patient remains isolated.

Kaseya noted that the outbreak, declared on May 15, 2026, has become the most geographically widespread in history, affecting multiple African countries. He warned of a severe situation in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, where the mortality rate is nearing 50 percent, and emphasized the importance of transparency and early reporting in saving lives.