The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) recently confirmed the dengue fever outbreak in Sokoto State, northwest Nigeria, and this outbreak calls for immediate sensitisation action.

Development Diaries reports that there is no specific treatment available for dengue fever, according to the NCDC, while it urged Nigerians, particularly those in Sokoto State, to take preventive measures against the virus.

The NCDC reports that 71 suspected cases, 13 confirmed cases, and zero deaths have been reported in the state.

In the event of a disease outbreak, citizens must be informed on how to follow established public health protocols and guidelines to mitigate the spread of the disease and protect the population.

According to the Public Health Institute, dengue fever is a viral infection caused by the dengue virus (DENV) and transmitted to humans through infected mosquito bites.

While the NCDC noted that public health actions have been taken in Sokoto State to ensure the control of the spread of dengue, accurate and timely information must be provided to citizens in other states about the outbreak, including symptoms, prevention measures, and treatment options.

Strengthening surveillance systems to detect and monitor outbreaks early is something that must be done across the country.

Development Diaries calls on the NCDC, in collaboration with various state health ministries, to begin a dengue fever sensitisation campaign among Nigerians, especially those at the grassroots.

Photo source: Surya Prakash.S.A.