NCDC Issues Public Health Advisory on New Mosquito-borne Disease- Chikungunya 

Onyebuchi Ezigbo in Abuja 

Amid global outbreak and flood risks, the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) has released a public health advisory on Chikungunya, following reports of outbreaks across multiple countries.

Although no confirmed cases have been reported in Nigeria, the NCDC said it is strengthening surveillance and preparedness due to heightened risk from increased flooding and mosquito breeding, which also elevate the threat of yellow fever and dengue fever.

A statement by the Centre, gave information on symptoms, form of transmission and key prevention tips for individuals and communities.

The Centre also details actions being taken along with partners across the One Health spectrum.

NCDC said it is closely monitoring the global epidemiological situation following recent reports of the Chikungunya virus outbreak.  

According to the World Health Organisation and the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control, over 240,000 cases and 90 deaths have been reported across at least 16 countries so far this year. 

Notably, China has recorded nearly 5,000 cases since early July 2025, with Guangdong Province alone reporting close to 3,000 cases in a week.

Chikungunya is a mosquito-borne viral disease transmitted primarily by the Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus mosquitoes, the same vectors responsible for Dengue and Yellow Fever.

Unlike the Malaria causing Anopheles mosquitoes, Aedes mosquitoes bite during the day, especially early mornings and

late afternoons. Therefore, preventive efforts must extend beyond night-time protection.

Symptoms include sudden-onset fever, joint pain, muscle pain, headache, nausea, fatigue, and rash.

Though rarely fatal, the disease can lead to debilitating joint pain that may persist for months and affect quality of life.

NCDC said that the public can adhere to earlier nationwide alert on flood related diseases such as Cholera, Yellow Fever, and Dengue fever, adding that the preventive measures outlined in that advisory remain relevant and critical for reducing the risk of Chikungunya, Yellow fever and Dengue transmission as well.