20 Dec 2023 | 07:54 AM UTC
Nigeria: Elevated dengue fever activity reported in Sokoto State, especially Sokoto South, through December
Elevated dengue fever activity reported in Sokoto State, Nigeria, through December; Sokoto South most affected. Avoid mosquito bites.
Health authorities have reported elevated dengue fever activity in Sokoto State, Nigeria, with more than 80 cases (13 confirmed, 71 suspected) reported Nov. 1-Dec. 16. The last outbreak in Nigeria was reported in 2019. Sokoto South (60 cases) is most affected, followed by Wamako (3 cases), and Dange Shuni (1 case). Local health authorities urge the public to strictly adhere to preventative measures, including wearing clothes that cover most of the body, making use of mosquito nets and insect-repellent, and ensuring proper sanitation of the environment to prevent mosquito breeding. This report represents the most complete data available as of Dec. 20.
If you have previously been infected with dengue fever, consult with your physician regarding vaccination. Avoid mosquito bites and remove standing water to reduce the number of biting mosquitoes. Seek medical attention if symptoms develop within two weeks of being in affected areas. Do not use aspirin or ibuprofen products if dengue fever is suspected, as these could exacerbate bleeding tendencies associated with the disease.
Dengue fever is considered a nationwide threat in Nigeria; however, the risk of infection is highest from April to October. Nigerian health authorities last reported outbreaks of dengue fever in Sokoto State in 2019, and 2016 where 1,477 cases were reported.
There are two dengue fever vaccines, Dengvaxia and Qdenga. It is only recommended for individuals with a history of dengue infection and in a country with a high dengue fever burden. Dengue fever is transmitted through the bite of an infected mosquito. The risk of infection is often highest in urban and semi-urban areas. Symptoms of dengue fever include a sudden onset of fever and at least one of the following: severe headache, severe pain behind the eyes, muscle and/or joint pain, rash, easy bruising, and/or nose or gum bleeding. Symptoms typically appear 5-7 days after being bitten but can develop up to 10 days after exposure. Dengue fever can progress to a more severe form known as dengue hemorrhagic fever (DHF). DHF can be fatal if it is not recognized and treated in a timely manner.
