The United States Mission in Nigeria has warned American citizens in the country to take precautionary health measures following the Federal government’s confirmation of a case of Bundibugyo virus disease, a form of Ebola.
The mission issued the advisory on Wednesday through its official X account, urging American citizens and other travelers to familiarise themselves with health guidance on Ebola and take appropriate precautions.
The advisory comes as Nigerian health authorities intensify surveillance, contact tracing and other public health measures following confirmation of the infection.
According to the mission, Nigerian authorities are conducting contact tracing and implementing other response measures after the case was confirmed. It also noted that the Nigerian government had reported that the infected individual travelled by air from Uganda.
The US Mission urged American citizens and other travelers in Nigeria to consult the United States Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) for information on Ebola and health guidance for people travelling to the country.
It advised anyone who believes they may have been exposed to the virus to contact a healthcare provider if symptoms consistent with Ebola develop.
“If at risk for Ebola, alert your healthcare provider if you are experiencing symptoms consistent with Ebola to receive guidance prior to presenting for care,” the mission stated.
The advisory also urged travelers to continue taking malaria prophylaxis prescribed by their doctors, noting that malaria symptoms could resemble those of Ebola.
“Continue to take malaria prophylaxis as recommended by your doctor. Symptoms of malaria can mimic symptoms of Ebola, leading to preventable health scares,” it added.
The mission further advised travelers who had visited an area experiencing an Ebola outbreak to monitor their health for 21 days after leaving the affected area.
“Monitor your health for 21 days following travel to an area experiencing an Ebola outbreak,” it stated.
It also urged American citizens in Nigeria to consult the US Embassy’s Nigeria country page for general health information and a list of medical providers.
Travelers were equally advised to check with their travel insurance providers regarding medical evacuation arrangements should they fall ill while abroad.
“Check with your travel insurance provider about medical evacuation options should you fall ill while overseas,” the mission stated.