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Tag: NCDC

  • NCDC raises alarm over life-threatening impact of antimicrobial resistance

    NCDC raises alarm over life-threatening impact of antimicrobial resistance

    The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) has raised alarm over the life-threatening impact of antimicrobial resistance (AMR).

    Dr Jide Idris, Director-General, NCDC raised the alarm in an interview with NAN on Saturday in Abuja.

    According to report, AMR occurs when microorganisms such as bacteria, fungi, viruses and parasites develop the ability to defeat drugs that were designed to kill them.

    Idris explained that the development poses a serious threat, not only to human health, but to the environment and the entire planet.

    He said that the misuse and overuse of antibiotics in humans, animals and agriculture were accelerating the spread of drug-resistant infections.

    “It makes infections harder to treat, leading to longer illnesses, higher healthcare costs and increases the risk of death.

    “This is endangering lives, livelihoods and the ecosystems,” he said.

    He blamed the development of AMR in Nigeria on indiscriminate access to antibiotics without prescription, poor infection prevention and control, and use of antimicrobials in livestock and poultry without veterinary oversight.

    He called for urgent and responsible use of antimicrobials across all sectors, saying, “together, we can fight AMR by the responsible use of antimicrobials”.

    He revealed that the Federal Government, through the NCDC and its partners were strengthening surveillance systems.

    Idris added that the NCDC was also enforcing regulations and promoting a “One Health” approach, which recognises the interconnectivity of human, animal and environmental health.

    The D-G also said that Nigeria’s National Action Plan on AMR was being updated to ensure a coordinated national response, guided by evidence, stakeholder engagement, and global best practices.

    He also said that public education, laboratory capacity, antimicrobial stewardship and responsible waste management were top priorities in tackling the rising AMR threats in the country.

    “The World Health Organisation has warned that if urgent action is not taken, AMR could cause 10 million deaths annually by 2050.

    “In Nigeria, health experts have also called for a ban on over-the-counter sales of antibiotics and urged citizens to avoid self-medication,” he said.

    He said that the fight against AMR required a collective effort.

    “We must all play our part by using antibiotics responsibly and following medical advice,” he added.

  • Diphtheria deaths skyrocket amidst vaccination crisis, NCDC warns

    Diphtheria deaths skyrocket amidst vaccination crisis, NCDC warns

    The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) says 1,319 deaths have been recorded in the country’s ongoing diphtheria outbreak.

    The NCDC said this in its latest situation report from the National Diphtheria Emergency Operations Centre (EOC) published on Sunday via its official website.

    Diphtheria is a serious bacterial infection caused by Corynebacterium diphtheriae.

    It typically affects the mucous membranes of the throat and nose, where the bacterium produce a toxin that can lead to complications such as breathing difficulties, heart failure or nerve damage.

    Vaccination is the primary means of prevention, and early treatment with antitoxins and antibiotics is crucial for managing the disease.

    The NCDC said that over 42,000 suspected cases had been reported across 37 states since 2022.

    “The report covered Epidemiological Week 10 of 2025.

    “It highlighted persistent challenges in tackling the disease, including low vaccination coverage, inadequate laboratory capacity and delayed case confirmation,” it said.

    According to the NCDC, Kano State accounts for 75 per cent of confirmed cases, with 18,108 out of 25,812.

    Other high-burden states include Bauchi (2,334), Yobe (2,408) and Katsina (1,501).

    The public health agency said that the case fatality rate (CFR) stands at 5.1 per cent, meaning one in every 20 confirmed cases results in death.

    “In some states, the mortality rate is even higher.

    “Kaduna recorded the per cent, Plateau has 48 per cent, Lagos has 83 per cent and Adamawa has 80 per cent,” it said.

    In the latest reporting week, the agency said that 23 new suspected cases were reported – 20 in Lagos and three in Katsina.

    It, however, said that none has been confirmed yet, with 56.5 per cent of cases still unclassified due to delays in laboratory confirmation.

    The NCDC said the Federal Government had launched reactive vaccination campaigns in high-burden states and intensified community engagement with traditional and religious leaders.

    Public health experts have warned that late diagnosis and poor access to treatment may be contributing to these high fatality rates.

    Despite Nigeria’s Expanded Programme on Immunisation (EPI), the report revealed that only 4,981 (19.3 per cent) of confirmed cases were fully vaccinated with a diphtheria toxoid-containing vaccine.

    According to Dr Solomon Chollom, a medical virologist, the numbers indicate a critical gap in routine immunisation coverage, particularly in northern Nigeria.

    Chollom emphasised the need for urgent mass vaccination campaigns, particularly targeting children aged one year to 14 years, who make up 62.9 per cent of confirmed cases.

    He said that another alarming finding was Nigeria’s limited testing capacity.

    “In 2024, all cases were confirmed based on clinical symptoms rather than laboratory testing, indicating shortages of reagents and PCR capacity for diphtheria diagnosis.

    “This raises concerns about the actual burden of the disease.

    Without widespread testing, we could be underreporting or misdiagnosing cases,” he said.

    The government has promised to improve laboratory capacity and optimise protocols for PCR testing, but implementation has been slow.

    Experts advised that there is the need for a nationwide diphtheria vaccination drive, improved disease surveillance and a steady supply of diagnostic materials.

    With Nigeria facing one of its worst diphtheria outbreaks in decades, health officials warn that without improved vaccination and surveillance efforts the situation could worsen.

    The government has outlined certain steps to be taken.

    They include increasing case management support and data harmonisation across affected states and improving laboratory diagnosis through PCR testing on clinical samples.

    Others are and expanding vaccination coverage to close immunity gaps, particularly among children and strengthening public awareness campaigns through social media and community engagement.

    Public health experts say preventive vaccination remains the best defence for now, urging parents to ensure that their children receive routine immunisations.

  • SAD! Lassa Fever k!lls doctor, 97 others in Nigeria

    SAD! Lassa Fever k!lls doctor, 97 others in Nigeria

    The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) has emphasised the growing urgency for Nigerians to maintain rodent-free environments and enhance personal hygiene amid the ongoing Lassa fever outbreak.

    With the disease spreading and already claiming 98 lives in 2025, including a medical doctor, the agency stressed the need for preventive measures such as proper waste disposal, sealing food in airtight containers, and blocking rodent entry points.

    The agency’s Director General (DG), Jide Idris, said that the public health advisory became necessary due to the alarming case fatality rate of 18.3% as of epidemiological week 9 (February 24 – March 2, 2025).

    During the period, he said the 98 deaths were recorded across 14 States, including that of a health worker, a physician.

    Breaking down the figures, the DG revealed that as of the period under review, Nigeria has recorded 2,728 suspected cases and 535 confirmed cases.

    He said Ondo, Bauchi, Edo, Taraba, and Ebonyi States accounted for 91% of confirmed cases, while 10 Local Government Areas (LGAs) contributed 68% of the total cases.

    Providing details on the physician’s case, Idris said the agency was notified of a confirmed Lassa fever infection in a 31-year-old physician who had recently returned from the United Kingdom.

    “On the 5th of March 2025, the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) was notified of a confirmed case of Lassa fever by the Ondo State Ministry of Health, in a 31-year-old physician managed at a private health facility in Ondo State after returning from a trip abroad (UK).

    “The patient departed Nigeria on 19/02/2025 and returned on 27/02/2025. Samples were taken late on Friday, 28/02/2025, on suspicion of Lassa fever, but the patient unfortunately passed away in the early hours of Saturday, 01/03/2025.

    “The laboratory investigation result returned was a Lassa Fever positive on PCR on Tuesday 04/03/2025.

    “The patient was said to have visited his fiancée in Edo state, as well as family and friends before travelling,” he said.

    The DG assured that to contain the outbreak, the Ondo State Ministry of Health has intensified contact tracing and monitoring of all possible contacts.

    He also noted that national health authorities have mobilised response efforts, including surveillance at points of entry and coordination with international health agencies.

  • NCDC alarmed by high fatality rate of Lassa fever

    NCDC alarmed by high fatality rate of Lassa fever

    The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) has reported 80 deaths from 413 confirmed Lassa fever cases across 11 states during Epidemiological Week 6 (Feb. 3–9, 2025).

    The NCDC disclosed this information on its official website, noting that the case fatality rate (CFR) had risen to 19.4 per cent, up from 17.5 per cent in the same period in 2024.

    The latest Lassa Fever Situation Report revealed that 73 per cent of confirmed cases came from Ondo, Edo, and Bauchi states, with Ondo leading at 34 per cent, followed by Edo 21 per cent and Bauchi 18 per cent.

    It said a total of 63 local government areas in these 11 states had recorded confirmed cases.

    “In spite of a drop in new cases from 68 in Week 5 to 54 in Week 6, the agency remains concerned about the high fatality rate.

    “The affected age group is primarily 21 to 30 years, with a male-to-female ratio of 1:0.8.

    The NCDC said while no new healthcare worker infections were reported this week, delayed case presentations had contributed to the rising fatality rate.

    The NCDC pointed to poor health-seeking behaviour, high treatment costs, and limited awareness in high-burden communities as major challenges.

    To address the outbreak, the NCDC had activated the National Lassa Fever Multi-Sectoral Incident Management System (IMS) to coordinate efforts.

    “The key interventions include deployment of National Rapid Response Teams (NRRT) to Gombe, Nasarawa, and Benue.

    “The interventions also involve training healthcare workers in Lassa fever case management in Bauchi, Ebonyi, and Benue, enhanced surveillance, and contact tracing in affected states.

    “Additionally, there will be distribution of response commodities such as personal protective equipment (PPEs), Ribavirin, thermometers, and body bags, along with community sensitization and risk communication campaigns in hotspot areas.”

    The NCDC stated that it was also collaborating with the World Health Organisation (WHO), Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF), and the International Research Centre of Excellence (IRCE) to improve diagnosis, treatment, and outbreak response.

    The agency urged Nigerians to take preventive measures, including maintaining proper hygiene, avoiding contact with rodent droppings, and seeking medical attention early if symptoms like fever, sore throat, and unexplained bleeding occur.

    “As the Lassa fever season peaks, the NCDC is intensifying case management training, rapid response coordination, and infection prevention measures to curb the outbreak’s spread.

    “A nationwide rodent control and community awareness campaign is being planned in collaboration with Breakthrough Action Nigeria (BA-N) and other stakeholders.

    “For real-time updates and safety guidelines, the NCDC advises Nigerians to visit www.ncdc.gov.ng or call the toll-free line: 6232.”

    The NCDC further urged Nigerians to reduce their risk of infection by following these measures: store food properly in sealed containers to prevent rat contamination.

    “Keep homes clean and eliminate rodent hiding places. Practice good hand hygiene by washing hands regularly with soap and water.

    “Avoid bush burning, which drives rats into homes, increasing the risk of infection.

    “Seek medical help early if experiencing fever, weakness, or bleeding, and visit a health facility immediately.”

    The NCDC stated that Lassa fever is preventable and encouraged Nigerians to stay informed and take action to protect themselves and their loved ones.

  • NCDC opens up on readiness as Uganda confirms Ebola outbreak

    NCDC opens up on readiness as Uganda confirms Ebola outbreak

    The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) has placed the country on high alert following the confirmation of an Ebola Virus Disease (EVD) outbreak in Uganda. Dr Jide Idris, the Director‐General, said this on Sunday in an interview in Abuja.

    EVD is a rare but severe illness caused by viruses of the genus Ebolavirus. First identified in 1976 near the Ebola River in what is now the Democratic Republic of the Congo, the disease has led to multiple outbreaks across Africa.

    Ebola spreads to humans through close contact with the blood, secretions, organs, or other bodily fluids of infected animals such as fruit bats, chimpanzees, gorillas, monkeys, forest antelope, and porcupines.

    Human-to-human transmission occurs via direct contact with bodily fluids of infected individuals, contaminated surfaces, or materials like bedding and clothing.

    Healthcare workers and family members are particularly at risk when caring for infected patients without proper protective measures.

    Jide said that although the country has no reported cases of Ebola, the agency, in collaboration with key stakeholders, has activated heightened surveillance measures to prevent importation of the virus into the country.

    He said that the outbreak, caused by the Sudan strain of the virus, was confirmed by Uganda’s Ministry of Health on January 30, 2025, with one reported case and one death in Wakiso, Mukono, and Mbale City in Mbale District.

    “Ugandan health authorities are currently tracking 44 contacts to curb further spread,” he said.

    He disclosed that in response to the development, the NCDC has: “Updated its EVD emergency contingency plan. Increased screening at points of entry, particularly international airports.

    “Optimised diagnostic capacity for EVD testing in designated laboratories and mobilised Lassa fever testing laboratories, which can be scaled up for Ebola testing if needed.”

    The director Director general of NCDC assured Nigerians that proactive steps were being taken to mitigate any risk of an outbreak.

    “While there is no immediate cause for panic, we must remain vigilant. The Ebola Sudan strain has no approved vaccine, making early detection and containment critical,” he said.

    He urged Nigerians to adhere to the following preventive measures:” Practice good hand hygiene – Wash hands regularly with soap and water or use hand sanitisers.

    “Avoid contact with persons showing symptoms such as fever, weakness, vomiting, and unexplained bleeding.

    “Refrain from consuming bushmeat, especially bats and primates. Seek immediate medical attention if experiencing symptoms after travelling to an affected country.”

    Additionally, he advised health workers to maintain a high index of suspicion, use personal protective equipment (PPE), and report suspected cases immediately.

    While the World Health Organization (WHO) has not recommended travel restrictions, he advised Nigerians to avoid non-essential travel to countries with confirmed Ebola cases.

    “Travelers returning from affected countries in the last 21 days with symptoms such as fever, sore throat, vomiting, or unexplained bleeding should immediately call the NCDC toll-free number (6232) or their State Ministry of Health hotline,” he advised.

    Beyond Ebola, he said that the country is currently battling outbreaks of Lassa fever, meningitis, diphtheria, Mpox, measles, and anthrax.

    He reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to strengthening surveillance and response efforts across the country.

    “Nigerians are encouraged to stay informed and follow official updates from the NCDC through its hotline (6232), social media platforms (@NCDCgov), and official website,” he added.

    Recall that the incubation period ranges from 2 to 21 days. Initial symptoms include sudden onset of fever, fatigue, muscle pain, headache, and sore throat.

    As the disease progresses, individuals may experience vomiting, diarrhoea, rash, impaired kidney and liver function, and in some cases, both internal and external bleeding.

    Laboratory findings often show low white blood cell and platelet counts and elevated liver enzymes.

    Ebola is often fatal, with case fatality rates varying from 25 per cent to 90 per cent in past outbreaks, depending on factors such as the virus strain and the effectiveness of response efforts.

    The average case fatality rate is around 50 per cent.

    Effective outbreak control relies on a combination of interventions, including case management, surveillance and contact tracing, good laboratory service, safe burials, and social mobilization.

    Community engagement is key to successfully controlling outbreaks.

    Raising awareness of risk factors and protective measures, such as practising good hand hygiene, avoiding contact with infected individuals, and safe burial practices, are essential.

    There is an FDA-approved vaccine for the prevention of the Ebola virus (species Zaire ortho-ebolavirus).

    However, vaccines for other strains, such as the Sudan strain, are still under development.

    Supportive care—rehydration with oral or intravenous fluids—and treatment of specific symptoms improve survival.

    Early supportive care with rehydration, and symptomatic treatment improves survival.

    A range of potential treatments, including blood products, immune therapies, and drug therapies, are currently being evaluated.

  • NCDC cautions against outbreak of new disease in China

    NCDC cautions against outbreak of new disease in China

    The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) says it is committed to safeguarding public health,  following reports of a Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) outbreak in China and other regions.

    Dr Jide Idris, Director-General of the NCDC,  said this in a statement on Tuesday in Abuja, emphasising the agency’s readiness to address potential threats.

    The HMPV outbreak has overwhelmed hospitals in China, sparking global concern. Videos circulating on social media depict overcrowded waiting rooms and strained healthcare systems, raising alarm in parts of Asia and beyond.

    Idris said that the NCDC was collaborating with the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare to monitor global developments and take proactive measures to ensure that Nigeria remains prepared.

    Dispelling public concern, he said that the World Health Organization (WHO) had not declared HMPV a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC).

    He said that Nigeria’s National Influenza Sentinel Surveillance (NISS) system had not detected any unusual increase in respiratory infections locally.

    Although no cases of HMPV have been reported in Nigeria, Idris said that the NCDC had ramped up surveillance efforts nationwide.

    The DG said that the agency had enhanced monitoring for respiratory infections, including HMPV, at sentinel sites across the country.

    He also urged healthcare providers to report any unusual spikes in respiratory illnesses,  while stressing the importance of preventive measures, such as regular handwashing, mask-wearing in crowded spaces, and staying home when unwell.

    The WHO has acknowledged the rise in acute respiratory infections in China, particularly among children, as reported by China’s National Health Commission. However, the UN Health OOrganisation has not released specific data on HMPV.

    Health experts describe HMPV as a known virus with established immunity in the population. While it can cause severe illness in vulnerable groups, it does not pose the same global threat as COVID-19.

    Meanwhile, India’s Health Ministry held an emergency meeting to review the rising cases of HMPV, reassuring the public that there is no immediate cause for alarm.

    Similarly, Malaysia has reported a notable increase in cases and is stepping up monitoring efforts.

    China, on the other hand, has downplayed the outbreak, describing it as less severe than in previous years and attributing the rise in infections to the winter season.

    Despite reassurances, concerns persist over China’s transparency, drawing comparisons to the initial handling of the COVID-19 outbreak in 2019.

    Dr Sanjaya Senanayake, an infectious disease expert from the Australian National University, underscored the need for data sharing.

    “It is vital for China to share its data on this outbreak in a timely manner. We need genomic data confirming that HMPV is the culprit and that there are no significant mutations of concern. Such data will also guide vaccine development,” Senanayake said.

    In the United States, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported a rise in HMPV cases, with positive test rates doubling in December.

    Nearly 300 cases were recorded in the last week of the month.

    The USCDC, however, said that the outbreak in China was not a cause for concern, but confirmed ongoing monitoring of developments.

    Recall that HMPV, first identified in 2001, is part of the Pneumoviridae family, which also includes respiratory syncytial virus (RSV).

    The virus causes upper and lower respiratory infections with symptoms similar to a cold or flu, such as coughing, fever, sore throat, and in severe cases, wheezing or difficult breathing.

    The virus poses the highest risk to young children, the elderly, and people with weakened immune systems or chronic respiratory conditions like asthma or COPD.

    HMPV spreads through respiratory droplets from coughing or sneezing, close contact such as handshakes, and touching contaminated surfaces before touching the face.

    Meanwhile, The USCDC advised the public to adopt certain measures to reduce the risk of HMPV and other respiratory infections.

    “Wash hands regularly with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. Avoid touching the face with unwashed hands. Wear masks in crowded areas during outbreaks. Stay home when unwell to prevent spreading the virus,” it said.

    The NCDC has joined international calls for transparency and collaboration to mitigate potential health threats posed by HMPV.

    As global health agencies monitor developments, the emphasis remains on preventive measures and vigilance to protect vulnerable populations.

    While HMPV is not a new virus, its potential to cause severe illness in at-risk groups underscores the importance of public health preparedness and international cooperation.

  • NCDC gives fresh update on new COVID-19 variant

    NCDC gives fresh update on new COVID-19 variant

    The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) has allayed public fears over the detection of the SARS-CoV-2 XEC subvariant globally.

    The Director-General of the centre, Dr Jide Idris, did this in a public advisory issued on Saturday night in Abuja, made available to newsmen.

    Idris reassured Nigerians that the variant, though identified in 29 countries, has not been detected in Nigeria.

    He said that the XEC subvariant, a descendant of the Omicron JN.1 lineage, was currently classified as a Variant Under Monitoring (VUM).

    According to him, this means that it is being closely observed for potential concerns but does not yet pose significant risk.

    “The XEC sub-variant has been reported in Europe, Asia, North America, and Africa, with Botswana being the only African country to record cases so far.

    “While the sub-variant exhibits higher transmissibility, there is no evidence of increased disease severity,” he said.

    The NCDC boss said that Nigeria had been monitoring the JN.1 variant, classified as a Variant of Interest (VOI), which has been present in the country since January.

    He assured Nigerians that the National COVID-19 Technical Working Group was conducting continuous surveillance and data analysis.

    Additionally, he said that a dynamic risk assessment was being organised to strengthen the country’s preparedness and response capabilities.

    He urged health facilities nationwide to ramp up COVID-19 testing and forward positive samples to accredited laboratories for genomic sequencing.

    He encouraged the public to maintain vigilance and adhere to basic health protocols, including handwashing, mask usage in crowded spaces, and ensuring proper ventilation indoors.

    He advised vulnerable groups, such as the elderly and those with underlying health conditions, to remain cautious.

    “COVID-19 remains a significant risk, particularly for the elderly, individuals undergoing cancer treatment, organ transplant recipients, and those with suppressed immune systems.

    “We urge Nigerians to get vaccinated and receive booster doses as recommended,” he said.

    The director-general also called on state governments to enhance public health infrastructure, provide resources for improved surveillance and diagnostics, and promote public health education.

    He reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to providing Nigerians with accurate and timely information on the evolving COVID-19 situation globally.

    He urged citizens to avoid misinformation and rely on verified updates from its platforms.

    “For assistance, the public is encouraged to contact the NCDC via its toll-free number 6232 or, WhatsApp: 07087110839, Twitter: @NCDCGov and Facebook: @NCDCgov,” he said.

    The XEC variant of COVID-19 is a recombinant strain, meaning it results from the combination of genetic material from two or more existing variants of the SARS-CoV-2 virus.

    Recombinant variants can emerge when different strains infect the same individual and exchange genetic material during replication.

    This process may lead to new variants with unique properties, such as increased transmissibility, virulence, or resistance to immunity.

    While thousands of mutations have been tracked globally, only a few variants are monitored for public health significance.

    Nigeria’s NCDC and global health organizations like the WHO continue genomic surveillance to monitor and respond to emerging variants.

  • Lassa Fever cases surge in Ondo, Edo — NCDC

    Lassa Fever cases surge in Ondo, Edo — NCDC

    The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) recorded a rise in Lassa fever cases in week 39 of 2024, with Ondo and Edo states reporting nine new confirmed cases.

    The NCDC stated this on its official website, based on latest Lassa Fever Situation Report.

    The agency said that this marked an increase from four cases reported in  previous week, raising the total number of infection and deaths in the year to alarming levels.

    The NCDC revealed that “the country is witnessing a surge in Lassa fever cases, with the total number of infections in 2024 rising to 1,018 across 28 states.

    “As of week 39 (September 23-29), 172 deaths have been reported, reflecting a slight increase in the Case Fatality Rate (CFR) to 16.9 per cent, compared to 16.8 per cent in the same period in 2023.”

    It highlighted that the new confirmed cases were recorded in Ondo and Edo states, two of the three states that account for 68 per cent of all confirmed cases in 2024.

    It noted that “Ondo reported 28 per cent of the cases, followed by Edo with 23 per cent and Bauchi, 17 per cent.”

    The NCDC said that the predominant age group affected by the disease ranged from 31 to 40 years, with an equal number of male and female patients.

    It said that no healthcare workers were affected during the reporting week, a positive sign amid heightened number of cases.

    The Nigerian public health agency said that in spite of nationwide efforts to curb spread of the disease, the increasing number of deaths is worrisome.

    It attributed the high CFR to late presentation of cases, poor health-seeking behaviour and inadequate environmental sanitation in high-burden communities.

    It noted that the challenges, coupled with limited access to treatment, were posing significant threats to the country’s ability to reduce fatalities.

    The agency said the National Lassa Fever Technical Working Group (TWG) had continued to coordinate response activities, while alerts were sent through the Nigeria Preparedness and Readiness Alert System (NPRAS) on ongoing efforts.

    The NCDC added that its partners had rolled out various interventions to bolster efforts toward tackling the menace. 

    Lassa fever, identified by the World Health Organisation as pathogen with high potential for severe outbreaks, poses growing threat as climate change puts an estimated 700 million people at risk.

    Symptoms of the disease include fever, headache, muscle pain, and in severe cases, facial swelling and bleeding, as survivors often suffer from long-term complications, such as deafness.

    Meanwhile, as Nigeria battles the ongoing Lassa fever outbreak, public health experts said concerted efforts are required from both the government and the public to avert further loss of lives.

  • Nigeria’s cholera cases surge by 128% with Lagos as epicentre – NCDC

    Nigeria’s cholera cases surge by 128% with Lagos as epicentre – NCDC

    The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC), has said that Nigeria witnessed a significant rise of 128 per cent in cholera cases. NCDC said that Lagos state accounted for 60 per cent of all cases, with Lagos Island being the most affected Locsl Government Area (LGA).

    The NCDC,  via its official website, said that for the epidemiological week 35, the death toll had also increased by 106 per cent with 204 fatalities in 2024. It reported 7,056 suspected cases as of Sept. 1, compared to 3,096 cases at the same point in 2023

    As of June 24, the country announced a state of emergency on cholera. This was due to a case fatality rate of 3.5 per cent, well above the national expected average of one per cent.

    Cholera is a severe diarrheal illness caused by the bacterium, Vibrio cholera, which remains a significant health challenge, especially in regions with inadequate sanitation and clean water access.

    Understanding the transmission mechanism of cholera is crucial in curbing its spread and implementing effective prevention measures. The Public Health Agency, also identified other heavily affected states to include Bayelsa, Katsina, and Zamfara.

    “Cholera fatality rates slightly improved, dropping to 2.9 per cent from 3.2 per cent in 2023,” it said.

    The NCDC said that it was intensifying rapid diagnostic testing and stool culture tests to contain the outbreak.

    “Vulnerable groups, particularly children under five, remain the most affected,” it said.

    It said that there were ongoing monitoring efforts,  and called for increased public awareness and intervention to curb the outbreak.

    Meanwhile, public health experts have pointed to several factors contributing to the surge in cases.

    Dr John Okoro, an epidemiologist, highlighted the impact of inadequate sanitation in densely populated urban areas.

    “The lack of proper waste management systems and access to clean water in areas like Lagos Island has made it a breeding ground for waterborne diseases.

    “Poor sanitation and overcrowded living conditions are accelerating the spread of infections,”Okoro explained.

    He underscored the urgent need for government intervention, stating that, “improving access to safe drinking water and investing in sanitation infrastructure should be a top priority.

    “Without these changes, communities in urban slums will continue to suffer from preventable outbreak,” he said.

    Environmental health specialist, Mr Peter Adamu, also commented on the importance of addressing long-standing infrastructure gaps.

    “Slum areas, particularly in Lagos, have been neglected for years, which not only puts residents at risks, but increases the overall public health burden on the country.

    “It is time we prioritise these vulnerable communities if we are serious about preventing future health crises,”Adamu stressed.

    He called for a comprehensive approach to urban health planning, underscoring the need for multi-sectoral collaboration between health, environmental, and urban planning authorities.

  • Most mpox patients recover after receiving proper care, says NCDC

    Most mpox patients recover after receiving proper care, says NCDC

    The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) has reassured Nigerians that most Mpox patients recovered fully after receiving timely and expert medical care.

    The NCDC via its official website, on Thursday explained the importance of seeking medical attention at the earliest sign of symptoms to facilitate recovery and limit the spread of the disease.

    Mpox, formerly known as Monkeypox, has been present in Nigeria since the 1970s, primarily appearing in rural areas with close interactions between humans and wildlife.

    However, the current outbreak has raised concerns due to its more widespread and rapid transmission, particularly in urban centers.

    “With proper and expert care, most Mpox patients recover.

    “ We urge everyone to visit a healthcare facility if they experience symptoms associated with the illness.”

    The zoonotic disease, caused by the monkeypox virus, is primarily transmitted from animals to humans, although human-to-human transmission is also possible, especially in densely populated areas.

    Mpox typically presents with symptoms such as sudden fever, headache, body aches, and general weakness.

    The NCDC highlighted that individuals may also experience sore throat, swollen lymph glands, and a distinctive rash that begins on the face, palms, soles, and genitals.

    The agency stressed that early detection and treatment were crucial to effective disease management

    “Our healthcare system is equipped to handle these cases, and with the public’s cooperation in seeking care, we can continue to control the spread of Mpox,” it added.

    In response to the ongoing outbreak, the NCDC said its monitoring cases nationwide and had strengthened surveillance and response efforts in collaboration with state health authorities.

    The agency also urged the public to avoid contact with infected individuals or animals that might harbor the virus and to maintain good hygiene practices to reduce the spread of the disease.

    NAN reports that Nigeria received 10,000 doses of Mpox vaccines from the U.S. and has prioritised five states—Bayelsa, Edo, Cross River, Lagos, and Rivers—due to their high Mpox case burden.

    Confirmed cases of the disease have been recorded across 19 states, including the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), since the beginning of the year.

    Bayelsa currently leads with five confirmed cases, followed by Cross River, Enugu, and Akwa Ibom, with four cases each, and Benue with three cases.

    For suspected cases, Ogun State tops the chart with 141 suspected cases, followed by Lagos with 99, Bayelsa with 94, Ekiti with 47, and Osun with 45 suspected cases recorded this year.

    Although, the number of Mpox cases in Nigeria is relatively low compared to countries in the Central African region, where thousands of cases and hundreds of deaths have been reported, experts warn that the risk of Mpox remains significant in the country.