NCDC warns against Cholera, Malaria, other diseases in flood-prone areas

The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) has issued a nationwide alert over a likely surge in cholera, yellow fever, and dengue fever cases, linking the concern to recent flood forecasts from the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet).

In a statement signed by Jide Idris, its director-general, the NCDC said states including Sokoto, Kaduna, Zamfara, and Yobe face an increased risk of flash floods this July, an environmental condition that may worsen the spread of infectious diseases.

“Floodwaters often contaminate our water sources by washing pathogens or germs from soil, animal waste, or overwhelmed sewage systems into rivers, lakes, and other bodies of water,” the agency said. “This contamination affects drinking water sources and creates ideal conditions for the spread of cholera.”

As of June 23–29, suspected cholera cases have been reported in 34 states, with Zamfara alone accounting for 32 per cent of all cases. Bayelsa, Adamawa, Delta, Lagos, and Rivers are also heavily affected.

The NCDC confirmed an outbreak of dengue fever in Edo state between June 9 and 13, citing laboratory confirmation. Seven yellow fever cases were also recorded in six states: Abia, Anambra, Edo, Ekiti, Lagos, and Rivers.

“A single confirmed case of yellow fever is considered an outbreak. No deaths have been recorded to date,” the statement reads.

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The agency said it is collaborating with states, health partners, and communities to strengthen disease surveillance, deploy rapid response teams, and supply treatment kits.

“We urge all state governments to remain alert and intensify surveillance efforts to ensure timely detection and response to any of these diseases,” it added.