EBOLA: Controversy Over Health Status Of Adadevoh's Sister

THERE was controversy last night over the health status of a sister
to the late Dr. Ameyo Stella Adadevoh, following reports that she
might have tested positive to Ebola Virus Disease.

While reports in the social media said she tested positive and
corroborated by a family source, Vanguard reports information from
other sources that although she was tested for the virus due to her
serious contact with the late doctor, the result came out negative.

However, when contacted, the Special Assistant on Media and
Communication to the Minister of Health, Mr. Dan Nwomeh, stated: "I am
not aware, please."

Reports on social media, had alleged that the woman in question had
previously been a suspected case, a suspicion later confirmed by blood
test.

"She has been moved to isolation at the Ebola treatment centre in
Lagos. She joins two other patients there under-going evaluation and
treatment," the reports alleged.

The controversy came to the fore just as Federal Government clarified
that the official number of confirmed cases of Ebola Virus Disease,
EVD, including the index (first) case in the country is 13 and not 14
as earlier announced, even as one more Ebola patient under treatment
has recovered and is almost ready for discharge.

Giving an explanation for the reduction in cases, Minister of Health,
Prof. Onyebuchi Chukwu stated in Abuja yesterday that the 14th Ebola
case initially announced as positive has eventually turned out to be a
false positive.

Chukwu, who reacted while giving an update on EVD in Nigeria, affirmed
that "The total number of deaths due to EVD (including the index case)
remains five, while the total number of those treated and discharged
is also five.

"Total number of EVD patients currently under treatment in the
isolation ward is now three.

One of the three persons currently under treatment is for imminent
discharge after necessary protocols.

The need for confirmation about the actual total number of confirmed
Ebola patients and those under treatment at the isolation ward became
necessary following conflicting reports in the media.

Vanguard