Sokoto State health authorities have confirmed an outbreak of Dengue Fever, with eight laboratory-confirmed cases recorded in parts of Sokoto metropolis, including Sokoto North and South Local Government Areas.
The State Ministry of Health issued an alert over rising incidents of fever and severe malaria-like symptoms, urging health professionals to intensify surveillance and improve early detection efforts.
According to Health Commissioner Faruk Abubakar, the government has activated preventive measures to curb the spread of the disease, stressing that although several symptoms resemble malaria, Dengue requires alternative medical response.
“All healthcare workers are hereby placed on high alert and requested to maintain a high index of suspicion for Dengue Fever in patients presenting with fever, headache, joint pains, body pains or rash—especially where malaria RDT is negative or symptoms persist despite treatment,” the advisory said.
Medical facilities across the state have been instructed to promptly inform local disease surveillance and notification teams of any suspected cases and ensure proper sample collection for diagnosis.
Abubakar also cautioned against the use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs like ibuprofen and aspirin in suspected Dengue cases, recommending paracetamol instead, due to the heightened risk of internal bleeding.
The Ministry further emphasised the importance of maintaining strong infection control practices, safe handling of medical waste, and community mobilisation efforts to eliminate mosquito breeding environments.
Health personnel were reminded to urgently report any unusual patterns of fever, clusters of illness, or unexplained deaths to the appropriate authorities.
“We encourage all health workers to remain vigilant and cooperate fully with public health authorities to manage and report cases promptly,” the commissioner said, commending their commitment to safeguarding public health.
