WHO Regional Director for Africa, Professor Mohammed Janabi, disclosed this in a post on X on Monday, confirming that the two Swiss citizens were evacuated earlier in the day by air ambulance.
Also read: Ebola: FG plans state treatment centres as contacts hit 53
The development followed an earlier announcement by Nigeria’s Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Professor Muhammad Ali Pate, who confirmed the departure of the patient and her husband for continued medical care and monitoring in Switzerland.
Janabi said the patient was clinically stable after receiving treatment from Nigerian medical personnel, who successfully managed her condition through the acute phase of the illness.
“The Nigerian medical team successfully managed her through the acute phase of the illness and stabilised her condition,” he said.
Janabi congratulated the Federal Government, health workers, clinicians, emergency responders and other partners involved in managing the case.
He described the response as a significant achievement, highlighting the contribution of Nigerian medical personnel and cooperation among public health partners.
“On behalf of WHO and all partners, I warmly congratulate the Government of Nigeria, health workers, clinicians, emergency responders and all those involved in the response,” he said.
The WHO official added that the outcome demonstrated the value of collaboration in responding to public health emergencies.
Despite confirming that Nigeria currently has no Ebola cases, Janabi stressed that continued vigilance remained necessary.
He said Nigerian health authorities would maintain close follow-up of 52 contacts linked to the case, while Switzerland would take responsibility for the continued management of the patient and monitoring of her husband, who was identified as contact number 53.
“With the evacuation of the patient and her husband, Nigeria currently has no Ebola cases,” Janabi stated.
The continued monitoring of contacts is intended to support public health surveillance following the case and help authorities respond promptly if any further concerns arise.
Janabi praised the teams involved in the response, describing the development as a moment of pride for African public health expertise, resilience and leadership.
Also read: Ebola: FG plans state treatment centres as contacts hit 53
Although the evacuation means Nigeria currently has no known Ebola cases, health authorities are expected to maintain surveillance and follow-up measures for the identified contacts.
Mariam Balogun is a contributor to Freelanews.com, covering news, business, and public affairs.
