The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention says travellers from countries with active or relevant Ebola transmission may need Health Declaration Forms under enhanced surveillance measures.
The agency said this on Tuesday in a statement, explaining that the advisory followed the evolving epidemiological situation surrounding the ongoing EVD outbreak in the Democratic Republic of the Congo.
It said the advisory followed the evolving epidemiological situation surrounding the ongoing EVD outbreak in the DRC, prompting Nigeria to review public health measures based on dynamic risk assessment and consultations.
According to the NCDC, passengers arriving from countries with active or relevant EVD transmission may face HDF requirements to support surveillance, risk assessment, contact follow-up, and early case detection.
However, passengers travelling from all other countries are currently exempt from completing the form, reflecting the agency’s risk-based approach to strengthening border health measures amid evolving epidemiological conditions nationwide.
The NCDC said the measures followed consultations with public health experts and the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, ensuring Nigeria’s preparedness and response remained proportionate to identified risks.
The agency urged the public to remain vigilant for symptoms consistent with Ebola, particularly travellers who may have had exposure, encouraging anyone developing symptoms to seek medical attention.
It also advised individuals with relevant travel or exposure history to provide accurate information to healthcare workers and authorities, noting timely reporting and follow-up remain important components of surveillance and response.
The NCDC said preparatory activities were ongoing in line with the evolving epidemiological situation, adding that it would review measures as epidemiological information became available and Nigeria’s risk assessment was updated.
The agency reaffirmed commitment to protecting Nigerians through evidence-based surveillance, preparedness and response measures, while working with national and international partners to strengthen capacity to detect and respond to health threats.
Implementing the measures involves collaboration among the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria, Port Health Services, the Nigeria Immigration Service, and the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority.
The agency said state health ministries were part of coordinated action, while international partners, including the World Health Organisation and Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention, continue supporting preparedness and response.
(NAN)
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