The Federal Government has confirmed the evacuation of Nigeria’s index case of imported Ebola virus disease from Abuja to Switzerland, with the Health Minister saying the patient’s condition has improved but she remains infectious.

The Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Muhammad Ali Pate, disclosed this on Monday, saying the evacuation took place earlier in the morning with his approval.

“I confirm that, with my approval, earlier this morning, the index case for Nigeria’s first imported Ebola virus disease departed Abuja for Switzerland,” Pate said.

The patient was reportedly transported out of the country aboard an air ambulance that departed from the private jet wing of the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja at about 6 a.m. The airport’s private section was reportedly cordoned off during the operation, with ambulances and diplomatic vehicles seen entering the area.

Pate said the patient was “clinically much improved, stable, conscious, communicating”, with her laboratory results moving towards baseline levels. He cautioned, however, that her improved condition did not mean she was no longer infectious.

“This does not mean she is not still infectious, hence the strict protocols in place,” he said.

According to the minister, the patient was evacuated alongside her spouse, who has remained asymptomatic. He commended the clinical team that treated the patient and the public health personnel involved in the evacuation.

Pate said further updates would be provided once the couple arrived at their destination.

The patient is understood to be a 42-year-old Ugandan-born Swiss national married to a diplomat stationed in the Federal Capital Territory. She reportedly tested positive for the Bundibugyo strain of Ebola on October 20, after returning to Abuja from Uganda on October 3.

The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention has identified and isolated 53 primary contacts for symptom monitoring, according to information provided by the minister.

Pate said containment measures remained in place and urged Nigerians to remain vigilant and rely on credible information as health authorities continued efforts to prevent further transmission.