The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) has warned Nigerians against relying on bitter kola, salt water, herbs, seasoning cubes and other unverified substances as remedies for Ebola Virus Disease, EVD.
The agency issued the warning in a public health advisory titled “Ebola Virus Disease: Myths vs Facts,” following the circulation of misleading health claims on social media amid renewed Ebola concerns in parts of sub-Saharan Africa.
According to the NCDC, there is currently no approved home remedy capable of preventing or curing Ebola, stressing that the spread of false information could create panic, encourage unsafe practices and weaken public confidence during health emergencies.
The agency explained that early medical attention, supportive treatment and strict infection prevention measures remain the most effective ways to manage the disease and limit transmission.
The advisory followed recent Ebola outbreaks reported in countries including the Democratic Republic of Congo and Uganda, which have triggered increased vigilance across African countries, including Nigeria.
Although no confirmed Ebola case has been recorded in Nigeria, the NCDC said the country remains at risk because of cross-border movement, regional trade and international travel connected to affected areas.
Director-General of the NCDC, Dr Jide Idris, said Nigeria’s large population and frequent movement of people make preparedness and public awareness extremely important.
He warned that Ebola symptoms can be difficult to detect in the early stages, increasing the risk of unnoticed transmission if proper surveillance and reporting systems are ignored.
The NCDC also cautioned Nigerians against sharing unverified health information online, noting that misinformation during disease outbreaks can be dangerous and may undermine emergency response efforts.
Health experts say false remedies such as drinking salt water or consuming herbal mixtures became widespread during previous Ebola outbreaks in West Africa, leading to avoidable health complications in some communities.
The agency advised Nigerians to maintain proper hygiene, avoid contact with bodily fluids of infected persons and promptly report suspected symptoms to health authorities.
Common symptoms of Ebola include fever, weakness, headache, vomiting, diarrhoea and unexplained bleeding.
The NCDC assured Nigerians that surveillance systems at airports, borders and health facilities are being strengthened to detect and respond quickly to any suspected case.
It urged citizens to remain calm, stay informed through verified public health channels and cooperate with authorities in the event of any outbreak response measures.
