The NCDC has issued an advisory on Chikungunya. Learn the symptoms, how to protect your family, and what Nigerians must do to stay safe from this mosquito-borne disease.
NCDC Public Health Advisory on Chikungunya in Nigeria
The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) has issued an important health advisory. This advisory is to inform Nigerians about the Chikungunya virus, a disease carried by mosquitoes. While there are no confirmed cases in Nigeria right now, the NCDC is asking everyone to be careful.
The warning comes because of recent outbreaks of Chikungunya in many other countries. More than 240,000 cases and 90 deaths have been reported globally this year. With the current rainy season and high risk of flooding in Nigeria, conditions are perfect for the mosquitoes that spread this disease.
What is Chikungunya?
Chikungunya is a viral disease that comes from mosquitoes. It is spread by the same type of mosquitoes that cause Yellow Fever and Dengue fever. These mosquitoes, called Aedes mosquitoes, are different from the ones that cause Malaria because they bite mainly during the day.
The name "Chikungunya" comes from a language in Tanzania and means "to become contorted." This is because the main symptom of the disease is severe joint pain that can make a person bend over.
Common Symptoms of Chikungunya to Look For
If you think you or someone you know has Chikungunya, watch out for these symptoms:
- A sudden high fever
- Severe joint pain
- Muscle pain
- Headache
- Feeling tired
- A rash
Even though the disease is rarely fatal, the joint pain can be very serious and can last for many months.
Why Chikungunya is a Risk for Nigeria
Even though Nigeria has not reported any cases this year, the NCDC says we must be careful. This is because:
The Mosquitoes are Present: The Aedes mosquitoes that carry the Chikungunya virus are already living in Nigeria. They are common in our environment and are different from the mosquitoes that cause malaria. Because they bite mainly during the day, it is important to take steps to protect yourself at all times, not just at night.
Flooding and Rain: Nigeria's ongoing rainy season and floods create a big problem. Stagnant water, such as the water left in blocked gutters, old tires, and empty containers, is the perfect breeding ground for these mosquitoes. Female mosquitoes can lay their eggs in these small pools of water, allowing them to multiply very quickly. This sudden increase in the mosquito population greatly raises the risk of disease spread.
Global Outbreaks: There are many cases of Chikungunya in other countries right now. With people traveling for business or holidays, a person who is sick with Chikungunya could easily arrive in Nigeria. If an Aedes mosquito here bites an infected person, that mosquito can then spread the virus to other people in the community. This is why a global outbreak is a serious reason for us to be watchful.
This advisory follows a previous warning from the NCDC about other flood-related diseases like Yellow Fever and Dengue fever. The same safety steps that protect you from those diseases will also protect you from Chikungunya.
How You Can Protect Your Family
The NCDC is asking all Nigerians, especially those living in areas with a high risk of flooding, to take simple steps to prevent mosquito bites.
Here is what you and your family can do:
- Sleep Under a Net: Use insecticide-treated mosquito nets while sleeping, even during the day.
- Cover Your Skin: Wear clothes with long sleeves and trousers to cover your body.
- Use Repellent: Apply mosquito repellent on any part of your skin that is not covered. This is very important in the morning and afternoon when these mosquitoes are most active.
- Clean Your Environment: Clear your surroundings and get rid of any stagnant water. Make sure to empty old containers, tires, flowerpots, and unclog your gutters to stop mosquitoes from breeding.
- Wash Your Hands: Always wash your hands often and keep your home clean to practice good hygiene.
- Visit a Doctor: If you experience any sudden fever, rash, or joint pain, do not wait. Immediately visit the nearest hospital or clinic.
The NCDC's Actions
The NCDC, together with other health partners, is working to protect the country from a potential outbreak. They are taking the following steps:
They are checking for mosquitoes and controlling them in different parts of the country.The NCDC is using a "One Health" approach. This means they are working with people in the human, animal, and environmental sectors to be prepared for any health threats.
Important Contact Information
If you need more information or want to report symptoms, you can contact the NCDC through these channels:
- Toll-Free Line: 6232
- Website: www.ncdc.gov.ng
- Social media: @NCDCGov on all platforms
FAQs about Chikungunya
What is the main cause of Chikungunya?
A1: Chikungunya is a viral disease caused by the bite of an infected Aedes mosquito.
Are Chikungunya and Malaria spread by the same mosquito?
A2: No. Malaria is spread by the Anopheles mosquito, which bites mainly at night. Chikungunya is spread by Aedes mosquitoes, which bite during the day.
Is Chikungunya a deadly disease?
A3: Chikungunya is rarely fatal, but the joint pain it causes can be very severe and last for a long time.
How can I prevent mosquito bites?
A4: You can prevent bites by using nets, wearing protective clothes, using mosquito repellent, and getting rid of stagnant water around your home.
What should I do if I get a fever and joint pain?
A5: You should go to a health facility or doctor immediately. Do not try to treat yourself at home.
What is a "One Health" approach?
A6: The "One Health" approach is a way of working together across human, animal, and environment sectors to fight health problems.
This article is for general information only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified health professional for any health concerns.