A journey from Uganda has triggered fresh Ebola fears in Nigeria, raising questions about how quickly the deadly virus can cross borders.
Nigeria has confirmed its first Ebola case after a woman who recently travelled from Uganda tested positive for the virus, raising concerns about the potential spread of the disease.
Health Minister Muhammad Ali Pate confirmed the case following laboratory tests. The patient reportedly developed symptoms on October 7 and was admitted to a private hospital on October 11 before her diagnosis was confirmed.
The woman is currently in isolation and receiving medical care as health officials work to prevent further infections.
Authorities have identified 44 people who may have been exposed to the patient and have begun contact tracing to establish whether the virus has spread to others.
The case comes amid a wider outbreak of the Bundibugyo strain of Ebola, which has raised concerns across parts of Africa, including Uganda and the Democratic Republic of Congo.
Kenya has also reported infections linked to the outbreak, prompting increased surveillance and contact tracing as health authorities work to contain the disease.
The Bundibugyo strain has no approved vaccine specifically targeting it, making early detection, patient isolation and strict infection-control measures critical in preventing further transmission.
Nigerian health authorities are now working to contain the infection and prevent the country from experiencing a wider outbreak.
