Nigeria’s index case of Ebola virus disease and her husband, a Swiss diplomat, were evacuated to Switzerland on Monday. The woman, originally from Uganda, is receiving treatment at Geneva University Hospitals for the Bundibugyo strain of Ebola. Her husband, who is also a close contact, remains in isolation at University Hospital Zurich.
The World Health Organization (WHO) confirmed that Nigeria currently has no active Ebola cases following the evacuation. The patient’s condition has stabilized after treatment, according to WHO Regional Director for Africa, Professor Mohamed Janabi. Both individuals are Swiss citizens.
This evacuation marks the end of Nigeria’s current Ebola outbreak. The Bundibugyo strain, which originated in the Democratic Republic of Congo, has been under surveillance in the region. Nigeria had previously reported one confirmed case, which was linked to an imported infection. The WHO has been monitoring the situation closely, ensuring no new cases emerge.
The evacuation was coordinated between Nigerian and Swiss health authorities. The patient’s husband, based in Abuja, was identified as a close contact and was placed in isolation immediately after the diagnosis. The swift action reflects international collaboration in managing infectious disease outbreaks.
This case highlights the importance of rapid response and cross-border cooperation in containing public health threats. Nigeria’s health officials continue to monitor the situation, ensuring no further spread of the virus within the country.
