Nigeria Battles Multiple Disease Outbreaks in 2025
The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) has raised an urgent alert over multiple simultaneous outbreaks of infectious diseases, posing a serious public health risk across the country. According to an official update issued on June 29, 2025, the agency confirmed the active spread of cholera, dengue fever, Mpox, diphtheria, and yellow fever in multiple states.
These outbreaks are straining healthcare systems and highlight the urgent need for coordinated response efforts from government agencies, health workers, and the general public.
Cholera Spreads Across 34 States
Cholera, caused by Vibrio cholerae, has reached alarming levels. As of epidemiological week 26 (June 23–29, 2025), suspected cases have been reported in 34 states. Zamfara State alone accounts for a staggering 32% of all cases.
Other affected states include:
Bayelsa
Adamawa
Delta
Lagos
Rivers
Cholera Symptoms:
Severe watery diarrhoea
Dehydration
Vomiting
Muscle cramps
Prevention Tips:
Drink only treated or boiled water
Wash hands regularly with soap
Avoid street food and uncooked meals
Use oral rehydration salts (ORS) in suspected cases and seek medical help immediately
Dengue Fever Detected in Edo State
The NCDC confirmed a dengue fever outbreak in Edo State between June 9 and 13, 2025. This mosquito-borne viral infection is primarily spread by the Aedes aegypti mosquito, which also transmits yellow fever.
Dengue Symptoms Mimic Malaria:
High fever
Severe headache
Muscle and joint pain
Skin rash
Nausea and vomiting
Poor sanitation, stagnant water, and climate change are contributing to the mosquito population boom, intensifying the spread.
Yellow Fever Confirmed in Six States
Yellow fever cases have been confirmed in:
Abia
Anambra
Edo
Ekiti
Lagos
Rivers
The NCDC has verified seven confirmed cases so far and stresses that vaccination remains the most effective preventive strategy.
Yellow Fever Symptoms:
Fever and chills
Jaundice (yellowing of skin/eyes)
Muscle pain
Vomiting and fatigue
Mpox and Diphtheria Remain Persistent Threats
Mpox, formerly known as monkeypox, continues to circulate in Nigeria. It presents with fever, body rash, swollen lymph nodes, and can lead to complications if untreated.
Diphtheria, a highly contagious bacterial infection, is resurging in various regions. It causes:
Severe sore throat
Difficulty breathing
Thick grey or white patches in the throat or nose
Diphtheria can be deadly without prompt antibiotic treatment and vaccination.
Urgent Health Advisory from NCDC
The NCDC is urging all Nigerians to take the following actions to reduce transmission and protect themselves:
Public Health Recommendations:
Eliminate mosquito breeding sites (e.g., stagnant water, open containers)
Use insecticide-treated mosquito nets and repellents
Avoid self-medication; get tested if symptoms resemble malaria
Maintain high personal and environmental hygiene
Get vaccinated where applicable (yellow fever, diphtheria)
Report any suspected cases to the nearest health facility or NCDC
Why This Matters
Nigeria is now facing a convergence of preventable epidemics, most of which have overlapping symptoms. The ongoing outbreaks are not only a health emergency but also a threat to the nation’s economic stability, school attendance, and community well-being.
Protect yourself and your community today.
If you or someone you know shows symptoms of cholera, dengue, yellow fever, Mpox, or diphtheria, seek medical help immediately.
Stay informed by following updates from the NCDC official website and local health authorities.
Share this information with friends, families, and community groups to help prevent further spread.
Let’s work together to stop the spread and safeguard public health.
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