The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) has issued a public health advisory on Chikungunya, warning Nigerians of the potential risk of an outbreak in the country.
According to the NCDC in a statement posted on its website on Friday, over 240,000 cases and 90 deaths have been reported across at least 16 countries so far this year, with China recording nearly 5,000 cases since early July 2025.
The NCDC noted that while no confirmed Chikungunya cases have been reported in Nigeria in 2025, the environmental conditions conducive to outbreaks are present, especially in flood-affected and high-risk states.
NCDC explained that Chikungunya is a mosquito-borne viral disease transmitted primarily by the Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus mosquitoes, which bite during the day, especially early mornings and late afternoons. Symptoms include sudden-onset fever, joint pain, muscle pain, headache, nausea, fatigue, and rash.
The centre urged Nigerians to take preventive measures against mosquito-borne illnesses, including using insecticide-treated mosquito nets, wearing protective clothing, applying mosquito repellent, and eliminating standing water collections around homes.
The NCDC also noted that it is working with relevant stakeholders to strengthen vector surveillance and control, support health workers and state governments in identifying and responding to suspected mosquito-borne illnesses, and reinforce community awareness and hygiene promotion campaigns.
“Nigeria has not recorded recent cases of Chikungunya, but increased global transmission, regional proximity, and current environmental risks due to flooding call for heightened vigilance,” the NCDC stated. “Together, we can protect our communities.”
