NCDC alerts 10 states on flood-linked cholera, disease outbreak

The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) has alerted 10 states to a high risk of cholera and other disease outbreaks.

The alert followed forecasts by the Federal Ministry of Environment and the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet), which indicate that parts of Adamawa, Enugu, Kaduna, Kogi, Niger, Osun, Oyo, Plateau, Taraba and Kwara States may experience heavy rainfall and flooding between April 13 and April 17.

The Director-General of the NCDC, Dr. Jide Idris,  in a statement on Wednesday in Abuja reiterated that early action, community vigilance, and prompt care-seeking could prevent outbreaks and save lives, noting that the forecast coincides with the seasonal period when cholera cases typically begin to rise in the country, warning that flooding could worsen disease transmission.

According to him, recent surveillance data already show increasing cholera activity across multiple states, raising concern that flood conditions could accelerate outbreaks.

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He explained that flooding increases public health risks by contaminating drinking water sources, disrupting sanitation systems, and exposing communities to unsafe environmental conditions.

He warned that beyond cholera, other risks include malaria and other mosquito-borne diseases, infections from contact with contaminated floodwaters, injuries such as drowning and snakebites, as well as disruption of access to healthcare services.

However, he stressed that the risks remain preventable with early action and community vigilance.

He advised residents in at-risk areas to use only safe water for drinking and cooking, including boiling, chlorination, or bottled water, while also maintaining strict hand hygiene practices.

He urged the public to avoid contact with floodwaters where possible, ensure proper sanitation and waste disposal, and store food safely to prevent contamination.

“Residents are also advised to sleep under insecticide-treated nets and seek immediate medical attention at the nearest health facility if they experience symptoms such as diarrhoea, vomiting, fever, or general illness,” he stated.

The NCDC chief called on community leaders and local authorities to support environmental sanitation, drainage clearance, and the dissemination of accurate public health information to prevent outbreaks.

He added that the agency is working closely with State Ministries of Health and partners to strengthen surveillance systems and enhance preparedness for rapid response in affected areas.

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