The Federal Government yesterday called on Nigerians to be at alert and be conscious of their hygiene following the death of an Ebola victim in the country.

Minister of Health, Prof. Onyebuchi Chukwu, made the call in Abuja while confirming the outbreak of Ebola virus in the country. He announced during a news briefing that laboratory tests have confirmed one Ebola death in Lagos.

According to the minister, the victim was a 40-year-old man from Liberia, who was traveling to Calabar for an ECOWAS meeting.

The victim was suspected to be having the virus upon his arrival at the Murtala Muhammed Airport in Lagos on Wednesday, and was taken to the Lagos Teaching Hospital for proper diagnosis and treatment. He, however, died in the early hours of yesterday despite intensive care.

Prof. Chukwu disclosed that contacts have been made with the airline and passengers that travelled with the victim for proper monitoring to avoid spread of the virus.

"All ports of entry into Nigeria, including airports, seaports and land borders, are placed on red alert," he said, adding:

"Ministry of Health specialists have been positioned in all entry points. Active surveillance has also been stepped up."

Ebola virus currently has no vaccine. The deadly virus which can claim a life within two days if contracted, is believed to be transmitted by bats and primates like monkeys and chimpanzees.

•Photo shows Health Minister, Prof. Onyebuchi Chukwu.