The Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Muhammad Pate, says genomic sequencing reveals a close similarity between the Ebola virus detected in nigeria and the strain identified in Kenya’s first imported case, with the analysis indicating that the two viral samples differ by only a single mutation.
The finding, according to the minister, provides fresh scientific insight into the case as health authorities intensify efforts to prevent further transmission.
Speaking in Abuja on Friday, the Pate explained that the genomic analysis was conducted through a collaboration between the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) and the African Centre of Excellence for Genomics of Infectious Diseases at Redeemer’s University.
Despite the finding, the health minister maintains that Nigeria has only one confirmed Ebola case. He said contact tracing and laboratory testing are continuing as health authorities continue to monitor the contacts who may have been exposed to the virus.
While reassuring Nigerians that there is no cause for alarm, the Minister stressed the need for strict adherence to public health precautions.
He said vigilance and cooperation from the public remain critical to containing the virus and preventing further spread.
To strengthen the country’s preparedness, the Minister said plans are underway to retrain health workers across tertiary and primary healthcare facilities to improve their capacity to identify, manage, and respond to suspected Ebola cases.
Meanwhile, the Federal Government says the Ebola patient in Nigeria is showing signs of recovery days after it confirmed the case in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
In a post on its X handle on Friday, the Federal Ministry of Health wrote: “The Federal Government has provided an update on the confirmed Ebola case in Nigeria, reporting that the patient is showing signs of recovery. There is currently no evidence of community spread.”
“Contact tracing, quarantine and monitoring continue, alongside strengthened national coordination, health facility preparedness and public health measures,” the post read in part.
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