NCDC Debunks Bitter Kola, Salt Water As Ebola Cure

The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) has cautioned Nigerians against relying on bitter kola, salt water, herbs, seasoning cubes and other unverified substances as treatment or prevention for Ebola Virus Disease (EVD).

The agency issued the warning amid renewed Ebola concerns in parts of sub-Saharan Africa and the growing spread of misinformation on social media following reported cases in countries including Uganda and the Democratic Republic of Congo.

In a public health advisory titled “Ebola Virus Disease (EVD): Myths vs Facts,” the NCDC stressed that there is no scientific evidence supporting the use of local remedies to cure or prevent the deadly virus.

“There is currently no approved home remedy for Ebola virus disease. Early reporting, supportive medical care and strict infection prevention measures are critical,” the agency stated.

The public health agency warned that spreading false health information could trigger unnecessary panic, create confusion and weaken confidence in official health interventions during disease outbreaks.

Although Nigeria has not recorded any confirmed Ebola case, the NCDC said the country remains on high alert because of increased international travel and cross-border movement linked to affected countries.

The agency urged Nigerians to remain calm, vigilant and avoid circulating unverified claims capable of undermining public health response efforts.

Director-General of the NCDC, Dr Jide Idris, said Nigeria faces a potential risk of Ebola importation due to population movement and the difficulty associated with detecting symptoms during the early stages of infection.

He emphasised the need for public awareness, preparedness and responsible behaviour, noting that early detection and strict infection prevention remain the most effective safeguards against the virus.