The Federal Government of Nigeria has made it compulsory for all incoming passengers into Nigeria by air, land, and sea to fill out a declaration form, particularly those traveling from regions affected by the Marburg virus outbreak.
African countries like Rwanda and Equatorial Guinea are currently battling the outbreak.
According to Dr. Jide Idris, Director General of the Nigerian Center for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC), this measure seeks to capture specific information and to help prevent the spread of the virus.
The Marburg virus, with an average fatality rate of 50%, is similar to the Ebola virus. The World Health Organization has classified this outbreak as a Grade 3 Emergency, which is the highest level for emergencies in the body.
Consequently, WHO has sent teams to support countries already affected by the virus, especially in fields such as epidemiology, research, vaccine production, health logistics, and others.
As of October 15, 2024, Rwanda has confirmed 62 cases, 15 of which were fatal. Dr. Idris assured that the agency is closely monitoring the situation.
“We are closely monitoring the Marburg virus outbreak in Rwanda,” Dr. Idris stated. “The virus is highly infectious and similar to Ebola viral disease.”
The government warns of potential localized transmission, especially in areas with high bat populations and where bats are consumed as delicacies.
The precaution is due to the travel volume between Nigeria and the affected countries.
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