By Muhammad Mamman
The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) has issued an urgent alert regarding the outbreak of multiple infectious diseases across Nigeria, warning of severe public health risks if immediate action is not taken.
The announcement, published on its website on Friday, 18 July 2025, confirms widespread cases of cholera, dengue fever, Mpox, diphtheria, and yellow fever, necessitating heightened vigilance and coordinated response efforts from all stakeholders.
The NCDC reported suspected cholera cases in 34 states, with Zamfara accounting for 32% of the total cases as of epidemiological week 26 (23–29 June 2025). Other significantly affected states include Bayelsa, Adamawa, Delta, Lagos, and Rivers. Cholera, caused by the bacterium Vibrio cholerae, can result in severe diarrhoea, dehydration, and death if not treated promptly.
Additionally, the NCDC confirmed an outbreak of dengue fever in Edo State between 9 and 13 June 2025, following laboratory investigations. Dengue, like yellow fever, is transmitted by Aedes mosquitoes and is exacerbated by poor sanitation and climate-related conditions.
Yellow fever cases have been verified in Abia, Anambra, Edo, Ekiti, Lagos, and Rivers states, with seven confirmed cases. The NCDC emphasised that the yellow fever vaccine remains the most effective preventive measure.
The agency also highlighted ongoing threats from Mpox and diphtheria. Mpox presents with fever, rash, and swollen lymph nodes, while diphtheria causes severe throat infections and breathing difficulties.
To curb the spread of these diseases, the NCDC urged the public to adopt preventive measures, including eliminating mosquito breeding sites, sleeping under insecticide-treated nets, using repellents, maintaining high hygiene standards, and avoiding self-medication.
The agency cautioned that symptoms of dengue and yellow fever may resemble those of malaria, underscoring the importance of timely testing and treatment.
The NCDC stressed that the rising incidence of these diseases demands immediate national attention and robust public health interventions to protect communities across Nigeria.
