The Federal Government has urged Nigerians to be vigilant against a potential Chikungunya outbreak, urging the adoption of standard control measures.
According to an advisory issued by the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention NCDC, no cases have been confirmed in the country this year, but the public health advisory became necessary due to rising global cases and Nigeria’s current environmental conditions.
The advisory comes as multiple countries report significant Chikungunya outbreaks.
Figures from the World Health Organization WHO shows that over 240,000 cases and 90 deaths have been reported globally so far this year.
China has been particularly affected, with nearly 5,000 cases reported since early July 2025, primarily in Guangdong Province.
What is Chikungunya?
Chikungunya is a viral disease spread by the Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus mosquitoes. These are the same mosquitoes that transmit Dengue and Yellow Fever.
Unlike the mosquitoes that cause malaria, Aedes mosquitoes are most active during the day, particularly in the early mornings and late afternoons.
The most common symptoms include Sudden fever, Joint and muscle pains, Headache, Nausea, Fatigue and Rash.
While the disease is rarely fatal, the joint pain can be severe and last for months, significantly impacting a person’s quality of life.
Why is Nigeria at Risk?
The NCDC believes Nigeria is at a higher risk of a Chikungunya outbreak due to the current rainy season and widespread flooding. These conditions create ideal breeding grounds for mosquitoes.
The advisory is an extension of an earlier warning issued by the NCDC regarding flood-related diseases such as Cholera, Yellow Fever, and Dengue.
The existing surveillance and response infrastructure, which includes the National Arbovirus and Vector Research Centre NAVRC in Enugu, is being leveraged to prepare for any potential outbreak.
How to Protect Yourself
The NCDC and NAVRC are urging all Nigerians, especially those in flood-prone areas, to take decisive actions to prevent mosquito-borne illnesses.
Personal Protective Measures
Sleep under insecticide-treated mosquito nets.
Wear long-sleeved clothing and trousers.
Use mosquito repellent on exposed skin, especially during the day.
Practice good environmental sanitation.
Eliminate standing water around your home in containers, tires, and flowerpots to prevent mosquitoes from breeding.
Seek medical attention immediately if you experience a fever, rash, or joint pain.
In addition to public awareness campaigns, the NCDC is collaborating with state governments, tertiary institution laboratories, and other relevant stakeholders to strengthen disease surveillance and control.
For further information, technical support, or to report symptoms, Nigerians can contact the NCDC through its toll-free line at 6232.
