Academy of Medical Sciences Urges Vigilance Against Ebola

The Academy of Medical Sciences Nigeria has called for heightened vigilance and stronger border surveillance due to a recent outbreak of Ebola virus disease in the Democratic Republic of Congo and Uganda. In a statement signed by the chairman of its Rapid Response Committee, Prof.

Obinna Onwujekwe, and Emeritus Prof. Osato Giwa Osagie, the academy noted that as of May 16, 2026, there were eight laboratory-confirmed cases and 246 suspected cases, with 80 suspected deaths reported in the Democratic Republic of Congo.

The statement described Ebola as a severe and often fatal viral hemorrhagic disease, with past outbreaks showing a case fatality rate ranging from 25% to 90%, depending on the strain. The academy stressed the importance of Nigeria's successful containment of the 2014 Ebola outbreak and warned against complacency.

Recommendations included enhancing screening at international airports and seaports, improving diagnostic capacity, and establishing specific clinics for Ebola. The academy urged the public to maintain hygiene, avoid contact with bodily fluids, and report any suspected symptoms to health authorities.