As torrential rains and flash floods threaten several parts of Nigeria, the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) has issued a nationwide alert, warning of heightened risks of cholera, yellow fever, and dengue fever outbreaks.
The agency also called for increased vigilance and urgent preventive actions across the country.
In a public health advisory signed by Dr. Jide Idris, Director General of the NCDC, the centre underscored the severe health implications of the ongoing flood season, especially in vulnerable states like Sokoto, Kaduna, Zamfara, Yobe, and others flagged by the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) in its July weather forecast.
According to NCDC, flash floods significantly disrupt lives and communities, often contaminating water sources and creating stagnant pools that serve as ideal breeding grounds for disease-causing organisms and mosquitoes.
The NCDC report revealed that Nigeria is currently battling a surge in cholera cases, while yellow fever and dengue fever have begun emerging in several states. This public health threat comes on top of ongoing outbreaks of Mpox and diphtheria, creating an urgent need for robust surveillance and community action.
“The risk of outbreaks increases when floods contaminate water sources or create stagnant water, which becomes a breeding site for mosquitoes,” said Dr. Idris. “We are stepping up our national response, working with state governments, health partners, and communities to prevent disease escalation.”
Cholera, a deadly waterborne disease, remains a major concern, especially during flooding. The NCDC warned that the bacterium Vibrio cholerae spreads through contaminated food and water, and can cause death within hours if not treated promptly.
As of Epidemiological Week 26, June 23–29, 34 states had reported suspected cases, with Zamfara alone accounting for 32 per cent. Other heavily affected states include Bayelsa, Adamawa, Delta, Lagos, and Rivers.
Yellow fever, another disease of epidemic potential, has resurfaced with seven confirmed cases in six states: Abia, Anambra, Edo, Ekiti, Lagos, and Rivers. Though no deaths have been reported, the NCDC emphasised that a single confirmed case constitutes an outbreak.
The centre urged the public to get vaccinated, stating that a single dose of the yellow fever vaccine offers lifelong protection. NCDC is currently collaborating with the National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA) to boost immunisation campaigns and control the spread.
Similarly, for the first time this year, dengue fever has been officially confirmed through lab tests in Edo State between June 9 and 13. Symptoms such as high fever, headache, muscle pain, and swollen glands were observed, and residents are urged to seek prompt medical care if symptoms occur.
Vector control efforts are underway in partnership with the Edo State Ministry of Health, involving enhanced surveillance, risk communication, mosquito control and public education.
The NCDC issued a list of critical preventive measures for the general public to protect themselves and their families:
With regard to cholera and waterborne diseases, the agency urged Nigerians to maintain hand hygiene and use clean water, wash fruits and vegetables thoroughly, avoid open defecation and ensure proper sanitation and boil or treat drinking water, especially during flood seasons.
It also called for the elimination of stagnant water around homes, the use of insect repellents, insecticide-treated nets, and the wearing of long-sleeved clothing.
In addition the NCDC called for full vaccination against yellow fever and seeking early medical attention for fever-related symptoms, rather than self-medicating for malaria.
Furthermore, Idris advised Healthcare Work workers to maintain a high index of suspicion for dengue and yellow fever in febrile patients.
Government and Public Cooperation Needed
The NCDC stressed that effective response relies heavily on the cooperation of state governments and the public.
“We urge state authorities to intensify disease surveillance and ensure quick response to outbreaks,” Dr. Idris added. “The NCDC remains fully committed to protecting the health of all Nigerians and will continue to work closely with relevant partners to prevent further spread.”
The centre encouraged Nigerians to stay updated via the NCDC website and official social media platforms for accurate and timely health information.
As Nigeria enters the peak of its rainy season, Idris said prevention saves lives. Staying informed, maintaining hygiene, eliminating mosquito breeding grounds, and seeking timely healthcare could be the difference between life and death in the face of rising disease threats.
