Written by
Ishioma Appiah-Yeboah
The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention has issued a nationwide health alert, warning Nigerians of a heightened risk of cholera and other disease outbreaks as flooding is expected in several states.
According to the agency in statement on Wednesday, forecasts by the Nigerian Meteorological Agency and the Federal Ministry of Environment indicate that heavy rainfall and flooding may affect parts of Adamawa, Enugu, Kaduna, Kogi, Niger, Osun, Oyo, Plateau, Taraba, and Kwara States between April 13th and 17th.
The NCDC say the warning comes at a critical time, as Nigeria enters the seasonal period when cholera cases typically begin to rise. Recent surveillance data already show increasing cases across multiple states.
The agency explains that flooding can contaminate drinking water, damage sanitation systems, and expose communities to dangerous environmental conditions creating a fast track for disease outbreaks.
Nigerians are being urged to take immediate preventive steps to protect themselves and their families.
Residents in affected areas are advised to drink only safe water either boiled, treated, or bottled maintain proper hygiene, avoid contact with floodwaters, and ensure safe food handling.
They are also encouraged to sleep under insecticide-treated nets to prevent mosquito bites and seek immediate medical attention if they experience symptoms such as diarrhoea, vomiting, or fever.
Community leaders have also been called upon to support sanitation efforts, clear drainage systems, and promote accurate health information to prevent panic and misinformation.
The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention says it is working closely with state governments and health authorities to strengthen surveillance and ensure rapid response in high-risk areas.
They stressed that early action, community awareness, and prompt treatment remain the most effective ways to prevent outbreaks and save lives.
For further guidance, the NCDC urged Nigerians to contact the nearest health facility or their State Ministry of Health.