NCDC confirms Dengue Fever outbreak in Sokoto

NCDC confirms Dengue Fever outbreak in Sokoto

The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) has officially declared a state of alert in response to the confirmed outbreak of Dengue Fever in Sokoto State.

The NCDC, in collaboration with the National Emerging Viral Hemorrhagic Diseases Technical Working Group (NEVHD-TWG), has conducted a rapid risk assessment to guide preparedness efforts.

While the current risk level is considered moderate, the NCDC emphasizes the need for vigilance due to the potential for the outbreak to escalate.

The affected areas include Sokoto South, Wamako, and Dange Shuni, with the majority of cases occurring in individuals aged 21-40.

As of November 2023, 71 suspected cases have been reported, with 13 cases confirmed. Fortunately, there have been no reported deaths at this time.

The NCDC has activated the Incident Coordination Centre (ICC) at the national level and initiated the development of an emergency incident action plan for Dengue Fever.

Trained Rapid Response Teams are on standby, and a comprehensive risk communication and engagement strategy has been devised. Additionally, a proposed research project aims to enhance understanding of the disease vector across the six geopolitical zones.

Public health actions in Sokoto State include the dissemination of a Public Health Advisory, clinician sensitization, enhanced surveillance, and collaborative efforts with the Ministry of Environment and Malaria Control Agency to improve sanitation and conduct reactive fumigation.

The NCDC urges Nigerians, particularly those in Sokoto, to adhere strictly to preventive measures such as wearing protective clothing, using insecticide-treated nets, and maintaining proper sanitation.

Early detection, community engagement, and a robust response system remain pivotal in containing the spread and safeguarding public health.

Authorities encourage individuals experiencing symptoms to promptly seek medical attention at designated healthcare facilities to facilitate timely diagnosis and initiation of supportive treatment.

The NCDC will continue to closely monitor the situation, hoping that coordinated efforts will effectively curb the impact of the Dengue Fever outbreak in Sokoto State.

Dengue fever is a viral infection transmitted to humans through the bite of an infected mosquito.

While most cases have mild or no symptoms, severe cases can occur, leading to high fever, severe headache, pain behind the eyes, muscle and joint pains, nausea, vomiting, swollen glands, and rash.

Prevention and control primarily depend on vector control, and there is no specific treatment for dengue.

Early detection and supportive treatment can significantly reduce the risk of severe outcomes.