Scientists to Investigate Source of Nigeria’s Ebola Case, Africa CDC Says

A team of scientists is expected to travel to Abuja to investigate how Nigeria’s recently confirmed Ebola patient contracted the virus, according to a Reuters report published on October 26, 2026.

Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention Director-General Jean Kaseya said the investigation would examine the patient’s travel history and possible links with other cases reported in Africa.

The patient, a woman receiving medical care in Abuja, tested positive for the Bundibugyo strain of Ebola. Nigerian health authorities have confirmed that she is being treated in isolation while public health teams continue their response.

Reuters reported that investigators would examine a possible connection between Nigeria’s case and an earlier case in Kenya. Genetic testing found that the viruses involved were closely related. However, officials have not established that the two patients directly infected one another.

The investigation will be led by Congolese Ebola expert Jean-Jacques Muyembe. Scientists will examine additional genetic information and other evidence to help determine where the infections originated.

In an update published on October 25, the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention said contact tracing and monitoring were continuing. Health authorities are also strengthening infection prevention measures and coordinating the national response.

The World Health Organization has urged affected countries to maintain surveillance, identify possible cases quickly and cooperate across borders. It has also advised against restrictions on travel or trade with affected countries.

The investigation is expected to provide more information about the source of Nigeria’s case and help health authorities assess the risk of further transmission. Until the findings are confirmed, the possible connection between cases remains under investigation.

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