The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) has issued a public health alert over a potential cholera outbreak in Nigeria, as well as rising cases of yellow fever and dengue fever, following forecasts of flash floods in multiple states.
According to NCDC Director-General Dr. Jide Idris, this alert follows the Nigerian Meteorological Agency’s (NiMet) projection of imminent flooding in Sokoto, Kaduna, Zamfara, Yobe, and other vulnerable regions this July. The agency noted that floodwaters often contaminate water sources, accelerating the spread of waterborne diseases like cholera.
“Floodwaters can carry pathogens from soil, animal waste, and sewage systems into rivers and lakes,” NCDC said.
The situation has already begun to escalate. Between June 23 and 29, suspected cholera cases were reported in 34 states, with Zamfara State accounting for 32% of all cases. Other high-burden states include Adamawa, Bayelsa, Delta, Lagos, and Rivers.
In addition, NCDC raised concern over a growing dengue fever outbreak, particularly in Edo State, where confirmed cases rose sharply between June 9 and 13. Furthermore, seven yellow fever cases have been confirmed in Abia, Anambra, Lagos, Edo, Ekiti, and Rivers states.
“A single confirmed yellow fever case constitutes an outbreak,” the agency emphasized.
The NCDC, in collaboration with state governments and partners, is increasing surveillance, deploying rapid response teams, and distributing medical supplies. It also urged the public to take preventive measures seriously.
Health Advisory from NCDC
- Boil or treat all drinking water
- Keep surroundings clean and eliminate standing water
- Use insecticide-treated mosquito nets and repellents
- Maintain hand hygiene and food safety
- Ensure routine vaccinations are up to date
“We call on all state authorities to intensify disease surveillance and respond quickly to outbreaks,” the agency urged.
