The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) has cautioned Nigerians against believing claims that common home remedies can prevent or treat Ebola Virus Disease (EVD).
In a public advisory titled “Ebola Virus Disease (EVD): Myths vs Facts,” the agency dismissed widespread misinformation suggesting that substances such as bitter kola, salt water, herbal mixtures, and seasoning cubes offer protection against the virus.
While reassuring citizens that Nigeria has not recorded any confirmed Ebola case, the NCDC warned that the circulation of false health information could cause unnecessary fear and hinder effective disease prevention efforts.
“There is currently no approved home remedy for Ebola Virus Disease,” the agency stated.
It stressed that prompt medical attention and adherence to infection-control measures remain the most effective response to suspected cases. According to the advisory, “Early reporting, supportive medical care, and strict infection prevention and control measures are critical. Avoid self-medication and seek care promptly if symptoms develop.”
The agency also rejected social media claims that “drinking salt water, consuming bitter kola, or using herbal mixtures could protect people from Ebola infection.”
Health professionals have long warned that dependence on unproven treatments during outbreaks can delay proper medical intervention and contribute to the spread of disease.
The NCDC further appealed to the public to verify health-related information before sharing it online, noting that misinformation can complicate emergency response efforts.
“Sharing unverified information can create panic and confusion. Members of the public are advised to rely only on updates from official public health authorities and credible sources,” the advisory said.
Despite the absence of confirmed infections in Nigeria, the agency urged citizens to remain vigilant as neighbouring countries continue to monitor Ebola-related developments.
“Although no case has been confirmed in Nigeria, outbreaks in the region require vigilance, preparedness, and responsible public health behaviour to reduce the risk of importation and transmission,” it stated.
The warning echoes lessons from Nigeria’s 2014 Ebola outbreak, when rumours promoting salt-water consumption and bitter kola as protective measures spread rapidly after the virus entered the country through a traveller from Liberia. Some individuals reportedly suffered health complications after consuming excessive quantities of salt water.
Nigeria eventually earned global recognition for successfully containing the outbreak through swift public health interventions, including contact tracing, isolation of suspected cases, public awareness campaigns, and coordinated emergency response efforts.
The NCDC advised Nigerians to continue observing preventive measures such as regular handwashing, avoiding contact with bodily fluids of sick individuals, and promptly reporting unusual illnesses to health authorities. It also assured the public that surveillance and preparedness activities remain active across the country to prevent any potential outbreak.
