WHO Explains Why Nigeria Is Still Not Ebola-Free Yet Despite Evacuation Of Index Patient

According to a report by The Vanguard on Monday, October 26, 2026, the World Health Organization (WHO) has officially clarified that Nigeria is not yet Ebola-free, despite the successful medical evacuation of the country’s index patient to Switzerland.

Confusion had earlier trailed the health status of the nation after initial reports suggested the country had beaten the virus following the exit of the patient.

However, the WHO made it clear via a public post that while there are currently no confirmed cases left in the country, an official Ebola-free declaration has not been made.

According to the global health body, protocols under the International Health Regulations dictate that a country can only attain Ebola-free status after a strict 42-day countdown following the last confirmed case testing negative twice, or after the evacuation of the confirmed case, followed by a period of heightened surveillance.

Local health authorities are currently keeping a close eye on 52 contacts who might have been exposed to the deadly virus, comprising healthcare workers, domestic staff, and family members.

Earlier on Monday, the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Muhammad Ali Pate, confirmed that the index patient and her spouse departed the country via an air ambulance.

Pate noted that while the patient was stable, conscious, and communicating prior to her exit, her improved clinical condition did not mean she was entirely non-infectious.

Meanwhile, the WHO Regional Director for Africa, Dr. Mohamed Janabi, commended the Nigerian medical team for successfully managing the patient through the critical acute phase of the illness.

As heightened surveillance continues, health officials remain on high alert to ensure absolute public safety.

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