The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention-NCDC, has warned of rising risks of cholera, yellow fever, and dengue fever as heavy floods continue across parts of the country.
In a statement signed by its Director-General, Dr Jide Idris, the agency cited a recent forecast by the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) indicating that Sokoto, Kaduna, Zamfara, and Yobe are among the states at high risk of flash floods in July 2025.
Dr Idris warned that flooding could cause widespread population displacement, disrupt livelihoods, and significantly heighten the transmission of infectious diseases, particularly waterborne and vector-borne illnesses.
“Floodwaters often contaminate drinking water sources by washing pathogens from soil, animal waste, and overflowing sewage into rivers, lakes, and other bodies of water. This creates ideal conditions for cholera outbreaks, which are caused by the bacterium Vibrio cholerae,” he stated.
The NCDC DG noted that Nigeria is already witnessing a surge in cholera cases, while yellow fever and dengue fever have begun to emerge in some states including outbreaks of Mpox and diphtheria.
Cholera Spike Across 34 States
According to Dr Idris, cholera still remains a major public health concern. As of June 29, suspected cases have been reported in 34 states, with Zamfara state accounting for 32% of the national case burden.
Other states with substantial outbreaks include Bayelsa, Adamawa, Delta, Lagos, and Rivers.
Cholera is primarily contracted through the consumption of contaminated food or water and can be fatal within hours without timely treatment.
Yellow Fever Detected in 6 States
The NCDC also confirmed seven cases of yellow fever in Abia, Anambra, Edo, Ekiti, Lagos, and Rivers states.
While no fatalities have been recorded, Dr Idris emphasized that even a single confirmed case is considered an outbreak under national guidelines.
“The NCDC is strengthening laboratory diagnostics, surveillance, and field investigations in affected areas,” the statement said.
It adds that the agency is working with the National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA) to support mass yellow fever vaccination campaigns across high-risk states”, he stated.
Dengue Fever Confirmed in Edo State
For denger fever, the NCDC said between June 9 and 13, the disease was confirmed in Edo State.
Denger fever, transmitted by Aedes mosquitoes, causes symptoms such as high fever, severe headache, joint pain, and swollen glands.
Public Health Advisory
To reduce the spread of mosquito-borne diseases such as yellow fever and dengue fever, the NCDC urged the public to eliminate mosquito breeding sites by clearing stagnant water and covering water storage containers; use personal protective measures such as insect repellents, insecticide-treated nets, and long-sleeved clothing; and get vaccinated against yellow fever, which remains the most effective prevention method.
The agency also urged the public to seek prompt medical care if they experience symptoms such as fever, vomiting, or diarrhoea and avoid self-medication, as many of these illnesses can present with malaria-like symptoms.
Dr Idris advised healthcare professionals to maintain a high index of suspicion for dengue and yellow fever in febrile patients, ensure proper infection control practices, and report cases immediately, as dengue fever is a notifiable disease under Nigerian law.
The NCDC expressed readiness to support state governments and development partners to strengthen outbreak preparedness and response, especially in flood-prone areas.
RN
