The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) is advising people in Sokoto, Nigeria, to follow preventive measures against dengue fever.
Dr. Ifedayo Adetifa, the director-general of NCDC, mentioned that a dynamic risk assessment indicates a moderate risk level for the current dengue outbreak.
This moderate risk is attributed to the fact that only Sokoto state has reported confirmed cases so far, affecting only three out of the 23 local government areas (LGAs) in the state.
Fortunately, no severe cases or deaths have been reported, and the state is well-prepared to respond based on experiences from previous dengue virus outbreaks in 2016 and 2019.
Dr. Adetifa highlighted that there have been no infections or deaths among healthcare workers, but there is a need to increase awareness among them.
Nigeria has developed capacity, including technical, health workforce, and diagnostic capabilities, to effectively respond to a potential large-scale outbreak.
The director-general emphasized the importance of preventive measures, urging Nigerians, especially those in Sokoto, to use insecticide-treated mosquito nets, apply insect repellent in sleeping areas, and maintain proper sanitation to reduce mosquito breeding.
Dengue fever, caused by the dengue virus (DENV) transmitted through mosquito bites, has not shown human-to-human transmission.
The virus is prevalent in tropical and sub-tropical climates, particularly in urban and semi-urban areas worldwide.
Dr. Adetifa explained that most people with dengue experience mild or no symptoms, recovering within one to two weeks.
However, severe cases can occur, leading to death. Symptoms typically include high fever, severe headache, pain behind the eyes, muscle and joint pains, nausea, vomiting, swollen glands, and rash. Individuals infected a second time are at a higher risk of severe dengue.
Prevention and control of DENV infection primarily rely on vector control, as there is no specific treatment for dengue.
Early detection and prompt initiation of supportive treatment have proven effective in reducing mortality, according to available data.
The NCDC encourages the public to stay informed and take necessary precautions to minimize the risk of dengue fever.
