NCDC raises alert on Cholera, Diphtheria, Dengue, Mpox outbreaks
The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) has alerted Nigerians on infectious disease outbreaks across the country, warning members of the public of serious health risks if urgent action and preventive steps were not taken.
Issued through its website on Friday, the NCDC confirmed the widespread outbreak of cholera, dengue fever, Mpox, diphtheria, and yellow fever.
Stating that the ongoing outbreaks required immediate national attention, the agency called for intensified efforts from stakeholders.
“The situation demands heightened vigilance and intensified response efforts from all stakeholders”, 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). Cholera can lead to severe diarrhoea, dehydration, and death if left untreated.
Dengue fever outbreak was confirmed by the NCDC in Edo between June 9 and 13, following laboratory investigations, while Yellow Fever was confirmed in Abia, Edo, Anambra, Ekiti, Lagos, and Rivers states, with seven verified cases.
Dengue, like yellow fever, is spread by Aedes mosquitoes, facilitated by poor sanitation and weather 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 yellow fever vaccine remains the most effective prevention strategy,” the NCDC said.
The NCDC also warned of Mpox and diphtheria which currently pose threats to Nigerians.
Preventive steps, which include eliminating mosquito breeding sites, sleeping under insecticide-treated nets, using repellents, maintaining high hygiene standards, and avoiding self-medication, were recommended by the public health agency.
