The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) has brought attention to several pressing public health challenges facing the country, including the resurgence of Mpox, a significant cholera outbreak and the escalating threat of antimicrobial resistance (AMR).
Director-general of the NCDC, Dr. Jide Idris highlighted these concerns during a briefing with newsmen in Abuja on Thursday. He emphasised that these health issues not only pose substantial risks to public safety but also underscore the necessity for a coordinated national and regional response.
Mpox, recently declared a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC) by both the World Health Organisation (WHO) and the Africa CDC, has seen a troubling increase in cases across the continent. As of 2024, there have been 2,863 confirmed cases and 517 deaths reported across 13 African countries. In Nigeria alone, 39 confirmed cases have been recorded, primarily in Bayelsa, Cross River, Ogun and Lagos states. Idris noted that the NCDC is intensifying its surveillance efforts and public awareness campaigns to curb the spread of this zoonotic disease.
In addition to the Mpox threat, Nigeria is grappling with a persistent cholera outbreak. As of August 11, 2024, the NCDC has reported 5,951 suspected cholera cases and 176 deaths. The ongoing rainy season, coupled with poor sanitation practices, is exacerbating the situation. The NCDC’s response strategy includes deploying rapid response teams, enhancing laboratory testing and engaging in community outreach in high-risk areas.
Another critical concern is antimicrobial resistance (AMR), which contributes to over 64,500 deaths annually in Nigeria. Idris outlined the NCDC’s initiatives to combat this growing threat, which include public education on the responsible use of antibiotics, improving antibiotic stewardship, and strengthening surveillance across human, animal and environmental sectors.
As Nigeria enters peak seasons for diseases like Lassa fever, yellow fever, and cerebrospinal meningitis, the NCDC is implementing measures to enhance preparedness. These include deploying medical countermeasures, conducting refresher training for rapid response teams and engaging communities through targeted communication strategies.
Idris concluded that the NCDC’s comprehensive approach reflects the urgency and scale of the health threats facing Nigeria. He emphasised that sustained efforts and collaboration across all sectors of society are essential to mitigating the impact of these diseases and safeguarding public health.
