By Our Correspondent

National News – The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention has warned Nigerians against using bitter kola, salt water, herbs, and seasoning cubes as treatment or protection against Ebola Virus Disease.

The agency clarified that no approved home remedy exists for the deadly infection, despite growing rumours linked to a regional Ebola outbreak.

In a public health advisory released on Tuesday, the NCDC explained that Nigeria has not recorded any confirmed Ebola case.

However, the agency said misinformation spreading on social media could create panic, delay proper treatment, and increase health risks for citizens.

The health agency stressed that early reporting, supportive medical care, and strict infection prevention measures remain the safest ways to manage suspected Ebola cases.

It urged Nigerians to avoid self-medication and seek medical attention immediately if symptoms appear.

According to the NCDC, claims suggesting that drinking salt water, eating bitter kola, or taking herbal mixtures can prevent Ebola are false and dangerous.

Public health experts also warned that relying on unverified remedies during outbreaks often worsens transmission and reduces chances of early treatment.

The agency further advised Nigerians to stop sharing unverified health information online.

It noted that false reports and fake cures could weaken public health response efforts and create confusion during disease outbreaks.

The warning revived memories of Nigeria’s 2014 Ebola outbreak when many residents consumed excessive salt water and bitter kola after rumours spread that they could prevent infection.

Health authorities later dismissed the claims after several people reportedly suffered health complications from excessive salt intake.

The NCDC reassured Nigerians that surveillance and preparedness measures are ongoing nationwide to prevent any possible Ebola outbreak.

Citizens were encouraged to maintain regular hand hygiene, avoid contact with bodily fluids of sick persons, and promptly report unusual illnesses to health authorities.