Abuja, Nigeria
The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) has issued a critical nationwide alert, urging heightened vigilance as the nation grapples with multiple infectious disease outbreaks. Cholera, yellow fever, and dengue fever are on the rise, with reported cases and deaths prompting swift action from health authorities. This alarming development coincides with predictions of flash floods across several states, creating ideal conditions for the proliferation of these diseases.
Nigeria, unfortunately, is no stranger to the relentless challenge of infectious diseases. Even as the country continues to contend with ongoing outbreaks of Mpox and diphtheria, the emergence and surge of cholera, yellow fever, and dengue fever present a complex and immediate public health threat. The NCDC is sounding the alarm, emphasizing the need for urgent, collective action to mitigate the impact and protect the lives of Nigerians.
The Unfolding Crises: Cholera, Yellow Fever, and Dengue
Cholera’s Resurgence: As of epidemiological week 26 (June 23–29, 2025), a staggering 34 states have reported suspected cases of cholera. Zamfara State bears the brunt of this surge, accounting for 32% of the total caseload. Other high-burden states include Bayelsa, Adamawa, Delta, Lagos, and Rivers. Cholera, caused by the bacterium Vibrio cholerae, is an acute diarrheal illness that can lead to severe dehydration and death if not promptly treated. The NCDC attributes this rising incidence to inadequate water treatment, poor sanitation, and hygiene practices, especially exacerbated by the current flood season, which often contaminates water sources.
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Yellow Fever – A Persistent Threat: Yellow fever, a viral hemorrhagic disease transmitted by Aedes mosquitoes, continues to pose a significant public health concern. The NCDC has confirmed seven cases of yellow fever across six states: Abia, Anambra, Edo, Ekiti, Lagos, and Rivers. While no deaths have been recorded from these specific cases, a single confirmed case constitutes an outbreak under international health regulations, underscoring the seriousness with which this disease is viewed. The NCDC emphasizes that the yellow fever vaccine remains the most effective prevention strategy, offering lifelong protection with a single dose administered at nine months as part of Nigeria’s routine immunization schedule.
Dengue Fever’s Emergence: Adding to the complexity, an outbreak of dengue fever has been confirmed in Edo State between June 9th and 13th, 2025, following laboratory investigations. Dengue fever, also transmitted by Aedes mosquitoes, presents with symptoms that often mimic malaria, including high fever, headache, muscle or joint pain, sore throat, and swollen glands. This similarity makes early diagnosis critical to prevent misdiagnosis and ensure appropriate care. The NCDC warns against self-medication for febrile illnesses, urging immediate medical attention.
The Shadow of Lassa Fever
While the current alert focuses on cholera, yellow, and dengue fever, it’s crucial to acknowledge the persistent threat of Lassa fever. The NCDC’s latest situation report (Epidemiological Week 28) reveals a grim picture: Nigeria has recorded 811 confirmed Lassa fever cases and a staggering 152 deaths so far in 2025. This translates to a Case Fatality Rate (CFR) of 18.7%, which is notably higher than the 17.3% recorded during the same period in 2024. The majority (89%) of confirmed cases are concentrated in five states: Ondo (32%), Bauchi (23%), Edo (17%), Taraba (14%), and Ebonyi (3%). Lassa fever, an acute viral hemorrhagic illness transmitted to humans via contact with food or household items contaminated with urine or feces of infected Mastomys rats, remains a significant public health challenge, with annual outbreaks expanding across the country.
NCDC’s Response and Public Health Advisories
The NCDC is spearheading a multi-pronged national response. This includes the rapid deployment of outbreak teams to affected states, distribution of essential treatment supplies, enhanced surveillance to track disease spread, and intensive community-level risk communication campaigns. Collaborating with state governments and health partners, the NCDC is strengthening laboratory diagnostics, supporting mass immunization drives, and conducting thorough outbreak investigations.
To curb the spread of these diseases, the NCDC has issued crucial public health advisories:
For Cholera:
- Safe Water: Ensure water is boiled and stored in clean, covered containers before drinking.
- Hygiene: Practice frequent handwashing with soap and clean running water, especially before eating and after using the toilet.
- Food Safety: Cook food thoroughly and protect it from contamination by flies. Wash raw fruits and vegetables with safe water. Avoid raw or undercooked seafood and food from street vendors.
- Sanitation: Avoid open defecation, ensure proper disposal of waste, and regularly clear sewage.
- Seek Medical Attention: Do not self-medicate if experiencing sudden watery diarrhea; visit a healthcare facility immediately.
For Yellow and Dengue Fever: - Vaccination: Get vaccinated against yellow fever. A single dose provides lifelong protection.
- Mosquito Control: Eliminate mosquito breeding sites by clearing stagnant water (in puddles, tree holes, discarded tires, and containers) and covering water storage containers.
- Personal Protection: Use insecticide-treated nets, apply insect repellents, and wear protective clothing to reduce mosquito bites.
- Prompt Medical Care: Seek immediate medical attention for symptoms such as fever, headache, and joint pain. Avoid self-medication, as symptoms can mimic malaria.
For Healthcare Workers: - Maintain a high index of suspicion for emerging diseases.
- Implement appropriate infection prevention and control measures.
- Promptly notify local and state epidemiologists of suspected and confirmed cases. Dengue fever, in particular, is a notifiable disease under Nigerian law.
The Broader Impact and Call to Action
The recurring outbreaks of these diseases have profound socio-economic impacts on Nigeria. Beyond the direct health consequences and strain on the healthcare system, outbreaks can lead to agricultural disruptions, trade restrictions, and significant losses in workforce productivity. Poverty and poor sanitation often exacerbate the problem, creating a vicious cycle.
The NCDC’s nationwide alert is a stark reminder of the continuous public health challenges facing Nigeria. It underscores the critical need for sustained investment in public health infrastructure, improved sanitation, and widespread public awareness campaigns. Every Nigerian has a role to play in preventing the spread of these diseases. By adhering to public health advisories, seeking timely medical attention, and cooperating with health officials, communities can collectively work towards safeguarding public health and reducing the devastating impact of these outbreaks. The fight against these diseases requires a united front, from individual citizens to all levels of government and partner organizations.
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