NCDC Issues Urgent Alert on Rising Yellow Fever

The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC), has issued a critical warning about the increasing number of yellow fever cases in the country, coinciding with the ongoing cholera outbreak that has affected nearly all states.

READ ALSO: Cholera: Experts call for adequate regulations, access to clean water

The Director General of the NCDC, Dr. Jide Idris made the announcement during a press conference held in Abuja, the nations capital.

“Since June 2024, the NCDC has been actively managing a cholera outbreak that has spread across 34 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), impacting 187 Local Government Areas (LGAs).

“As of July 15, 2024, Nigeria has recorded 3,623 suspected cholera cases and 103 deaths, with a case fatality rate of 2.8 percent, but there is a slight decline in reported cases and fatalities in the past week,” he said.

Dr. Idris attributed the improvement to ongoing national and state-level efforts but he cautioned that the peak of the rainy season, which typically exacerbates cholera outbreaks, was still ahead.

Concerns were also raised about underreporting due to inadequate resources for surveillance and the political stigma associated with the disease. “In addition to cholera, the agency has observed a troubling rise in yellow fever cases, particularly with the onset of the rainy season.

“Three presumptive positive cases have been reported, two in Ekiti State and one in Bayelsa State, along with one death”. Dr. Idris revealed.

“Yellow fever, a viral hemorrhagic disease transmitted by infected mosquitoes, presents symptoms such as fever, chills, headache, back pain, body aches, and jaundice.”

Dr. Idris highlighted the importance of vaccination as the most effective prevention method against yellow fever, offering lifelong immunity. He urged the public to ensure they were vaccinated, use mosquito repellents, wear protective clothing, and eliminate stagnant water to reduce mosquito breeding sites.

“Heavy rainfall and flooding significantly impact the spread of waterborne diseases like cholera and yellow fever.

“Floodwaters often carry pathogens from soil, animal waste, and sewage into water sources, compromising water quality and leading to disease outbreaks,” Idris explained.

Flooding also creates ideal breeding conditions for mosquitoes, increasing the risk of mosquito-borne diseases such as malaria, dengue fever, and yellow fever.
“The NCDC has provided comprehensive guidelines to mitigate the impact of these diseases: Boil and store water in clean containers.”

– Practice proper hand hygiene.
– Ensure food is thoroughly cooked and protected from contamination.
– Avoid open defecation and improper waste disposal.
– Seek medical attention for any sudden, sustained watery stool.

For healthcare workers, Idris emphasized the importance of using standard safety precautions and reporting suspected cholera cases promptly. He also called on state governments to prioritize access to safe water, sanitation, and hygiene facilities, and maintain proper drainage systems to prevent water accumulation.

Dr. Idris reminded Nigerians to remain vigilant against COVID-19 by maintaining hygiene practices, wearing masks, and getting vaccinated, as there are reports of a global surge in cases.

“We must not let our guard down against COVID-19 even as we battle cholera and yellow fever,” he said.

He called on all stakeholders, including government agencies, healthcare workers, partners, and the public to intensify efforts in combating these public health threats.

“Coordinated action is essential to prevent further loss of lives and ensure the health and well-being of all Nigerians,” Dr. Idris stressed.

In response to the dual outbreak, The NCDC boss said the NCDC has ramped up its public health campaigns and is collaborating with international health organizations to secure additional resources and support.

“The agency is also working closely with state health ministries to enhance disease surveillance and response capabilities.

“The NCDC’s efforts include deploying rapid response teams to affected areas, distributing medical supplies, and conducting training sessions for healthcare workers on managing cholera and yellow fever cases.

“Our goal is to strengthen our health systems to better respond to these outbreaks and prevent future occurrences,” Idris stated.

As Nigeria grapples with these public health challenges, the NCDC’s warning serves as a critical reminder of the importance of vigilance, preparedness, and collective action in safeguarding public health.

“The agency continues to monitor the situation closely and is committed to protecting the health of all Nigerians,” he added.