NCDC Warns Of Rising Cases Of Yellow Fever

The continuing cholera outbreak that has affected almost every state in the nation has coincided with an increase in yellow fever cases, prompting the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) to issue an alarm.

The statement was made on Tuesday in Abuja during a news conference by NCDC Director-General Dr. Jide Idris. He credited efforts at the federal and state levels for the minor improvement in cholera cases and deaths over the previous week. He did, however, issue a warning that the rainy season’s climax, which usually makes cholera outbreaks worse, was still to come.

Because of the disease’s political stigma and insufficient monitoring resources, Dr. Idris highlighted worries regarding underreporting. He also mentioned an alarming increase in yellow fever cases, especially since the rainy season has begun.

“Three presumptive positive cases have been reported—two in Ekiti State and one in Bayelsa—along with one death. Yellow fever, a viral hemorrhagic disease transmitted by infected mosquitoes, presents symptoms such as fever, chills, headache, back pain, body aches, and jaundice,” he stated.

He underlined that vaccination, which provides lifetime immunity, is the most effective means of preventing yellow fever.

In order to lessen mosquito breeding places, he advised the people to make sure they are immunised, apply insect repellents, dress in protective gear, and remove standing water.

Dr. Idris emphasised how flooding and excessive rain contribute to the spread of waterborne illnesses including yellow fever and cholera.

“Floodwaters often carry pathogens from soil, animal waste, and sewage into water sources, compromising water quality and leading to disease outbreaks. Flooding also creates breeding conditions for mosquitoes, increasing the risk of mosquito-borne diseases such as malaria, dengue fever, and yellow fever,” he said.

To help lessen the effects of these illnesses, the NCDC has produced extensive guidelines. These include boiling and storing water in clean containers, washing your hands frequently, making sure food is cooked through and shielded from contamination, avoiding open defecation and disposing of waste improperly, and getting medical help if you experience sudden, persistent watery stools.

Additionally, Dr. Idris counselled medical staff to report suspected cholera patients as soon as possible and to follow conventional safety procedures. He asked state governments to maintain appropriate drainage systems to avoid water accumulation as well as to give priority to access to safe water, sanitation, and hygiene services.

Dr. Idris addressed yellow fever and cholera in addition to reminding Nigerians to be on the lookout for COVID-19 cases worldwide and to take precautions including wearing masks, maintaining good hygiene, and getting vaccinated.

He urged all parties involved—the public, partners, government organisations, and medical professionals—to step up their efforts to counter these threats to public health. He underlined the necessity of concerted action to stop additional deaths and guarantee the health and welfare of every Nigerian.

A Gentle Reminder: Every obstacle is a stepping stone, every morning; a chance to go again, and those little steps take you closer to your dream.

Nnamdi Okoli