The Federal Government says genomic analysis has shown that the Ebola virus identified in a confirmed case in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) is genetically related to a virus identified in a case in Kenya.

The Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Muhammad Ali Pate, disclosed this in a statement issued on Friday in Abuja.

Pate, however, said further investigations were required to determine whether the two cases were epidemiologically linked.

He explained that genetic relatedness between viruses did not, in itself, establish a direct transmission link between the cases.

The genomic analysis was conducted by the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) and the Institute of Genomics and Global Health (IGH), Redeemer’s University, Ede, Osun, led by Prof. Christian Happi.

The minister commended both institutions for their prompt response and scientific rigour in conducting the analysis.

He said identified contacts of the confirmed case remained under active monitoring, adding that some had tested negative while results for others were still pending.

According to him, the Federal Government is strengthening surveillance, laboratory capacity, case management, risk communication and infection prevention and control as part of efforts to contain the disease.

Pate said healthcare facilities had been reminded to promptly identify and report suspected cases to public health authorities.

He added that additional training and sensitisation for healthcare workers would support the effective implementation of response protocols.

In a related development, the NCDC will begin issuing short daily public updates on the situation from Saturday, Oct. 24, in line with its public health guidelines.

The updates are expected to provide regular information as the situation evolves.

The minister urged Nigerians to remain calm and vigilant, observe recommended safety precautions and adhere to official public health guidance.

He also cautioned against spreading misinformation and unverified reports, advising the public to obtain information from recognised health authorities, including the NCDC, the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, the World Health Organisation (WHO) and the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC).

The Federal Government reaffirmed its commitment to containing the outbreak, protecting healthcare workers and preventing further transmission.

It also called for continued cooperation from the public and other relevant stakeholders to support the response efforts.