The World Health Organisation (WHO) has congratulated Nigeria for its handling of the Ebola index case, saying the country currently has no cases following the medical evacuation of the patient and her husband to Switzerland.
The patient and her husband, who are both Swiss citizens, were evacuated earlier in the morning. The patient was reported to be clinically stable after Nigerian health workers managed the acute phase of her illness and stabilised her condition.
“On behalf of WHO and all partners, I warmly congratulate the Government of Nigeria, health workers, clinicians, emergency responders and all those involved in the response. This is a remarkable achievement and a testament to what Africa can accomplish when we work together.”
With the evacuation, Nigeria currently has no Ebola cases. The WHO, however, stressed that vigilance remains critical as health authorities continue monitoring people who had contact with the patient.
Nigeria will continue the close follow-up of 52 contacts, while Switzerland will take responsibility for the patient’s continued medical care and the monitoring of her husband, identified as contact number 53.
The development marks a key point in Nigeria’s response to the imported Ebola case, with surveillance and contact tracing continuing to guard against further transmission.
Erizia Rubyjeana
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