Nigeria is declared an Ebola virus free country by WHO
The World Health Organization (WHO) declared on Monday to Nigeria, where the arrival of Ebola triggered all fears, as a virus-free after a period of 42 days without any new confirmed case of infection.
“The epidemic in Nigeria has been defeated. Is a spectacular success showing the world that Ebola can be contained,” said the WHO representative in Abuja, Rui Gama Vaz.
The epidemic was contained with a balance of 20 victims, including eight dead, thanks to a quick and effective response by the authorities. “Many rich countries, with extraordinary health systems, also have something to learn,” said a statement of the WHO.
To rule out that a person develops the disease, 42 days must pass (twice the incubation period of the virus) without showing symptoms.
However, the WHO warned that Nigeria remains a vulnerable country to import cases of Ebola, reason for which it calls to maintain strict security and surveillance measures.