Nigeria's Government Boosts Ebola Readiness Amid Rising Cases

The Federal Government of Nigeria is taking significant steps to prepare for a potential Ebola outbreak as the number of identified contacts linked to the confirmed case rises to 53. The government plans to identify and equip Ebola treatment centres in states with designated ports of entry.

It is assessing isolation capacity at the University of Abuja Teaching Hospital and planning an infection prevention and control assessment at Karu General Hospital. A source indicated that the index case, a 42-year-old woman, is expected to be evacuated abroad for further medical treatment early Monday, with arrangements made for her to be flown out by 6 am.

A medical evacuation aircraft is reportedly at the airport awaiting her arrival. In response to the outbreak, states are enhancing surveillance and preparedness measures, with Lagos intensifying screening at Murtala Muhammed International Airport and increasing public awareness efforts.

Health experts have raised concerns about critical gaps in Nigeria's intensive care infrastructure.