Federal Government has issued a warning to Nigerians regarding the outbreak of infectious diseases across the nation.
Gatekeepers News reports that on Friday, the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) reported the widespread occurrences of several diseases, including cholera, dengue fever, Mpox, diphtheria, and yellow fever.
The agency emphasized that these outbreaks pose significant public health risks and require urgent action. It underscored the need for immediate national attention to mitigate the ongoing health threats.
“The situation demands heightened vigilance and intensified response efforts from all stakeholders,” the NCDC said.
Suspected cholera cases have been reported in 34 states, with Zamfara accounting for 32 per cent of the total, as of epidemiological week 26 (June 23–29, 2025).
Other affected states include Bayelsa, Adamawa, Delta, Lagos, and Rivers.
Caused by Vibrio cholerae, Cholera can lead to severe diarrhoea, dehydration, and death if untreated.
NCDC also confirmed a dengue fever outbreak in Edo between June 9 and 13, following laboratory investigations.
Dengue, like yellow fever, is spread by Aedes mosquitoes and is being fuelled by poor sanitation and climate-related conditions.
“Nigeria is already experiencing a rising incidence of cholera, while yellow fever and dengue fever are beginning to be detected in some states,” the NCDC said.
Yellow fever has been confirmed in Abia, Anambra, Edo, Ekiti, Lagos, and Rivers states, with seven cases verified.
“The yellow fever vaccine remains the most effective prevention strategy,” the NCDC said.
The NCDC said Mpox and diphtheria remained ongoing threats.
Mpox causes fever, rash, and swollen lymph nodes, while diphtheria leads to severe throat infections and breathing difficulties.
It urged citizens to take preventive steps, including eliminating mosquito breeding sites, sleeping under insecticide-treated nets, using repellents, maintaining high hygiene standards, and avoiding self-medication.
NCDC also warned that symptoms of dengue and yellow fever could mimic malaria, making timely testing and treatment essential.
