The Sokoto State Government has activated heightened surveillance following the confirmation of eight laboratory-verified cases of Dengue fever across Sokoto metropolis, including Sokoto North and Sokoto South Local Government Areas.
In a public health advisory issued on Sunday, the Ministry of Health alerted all public and private health facilities to increasing reports of fever and severe malaria-like symptoms in several communities, urging health workers to intensify case detection and strengthen monitoring systems.
The Commissioner for Health, Dr Faruk Abubakar, said the state had moved swiftly to curb further spread of the mosquito-borne disease, noting that many patients initially present with symptoms resembling malaria but require different clinical management.
“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 stated.
The ministry directed all facilities to immediately notify LGA Disease Surveillance and Notification Officers of suspected cases and ensure prompt sample collection for laboratory confirmation.
Abubakar also cautioned clinicians against administering NSAIDs such as ibuprofen and aspirin in suspected cases, recommending the use of paracetamol instead due to the increased risk of bleeding associated with Dengue infection.
The state government further emphasised strict adherence to Infection Prevention and Control measures, safe waste disposal, and intensified community sensitisation to eliminate mosquito-breeding sites.
Health workers were urged to report any unusual fever spikes, clusters, or deaths to the Disease Surveillance Office or the State Epidemiology Unit without delay.
“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 sustained commitment to public health.
Dengue fever, transmitted by the Aedes mosquito, has seen a resurgence in parts of Nigeria, prompting heightened monitoring nationwide.
-Advertisement-
Grab our latest Magazine, "Chief Wole Olanipekun, CFR, SAN, A man of wide horizons and deep intentions". Get your order fast and stress free.
For more details about Newswire Law&Events Magazine, kindly reach out to us on 08039218044, 09070309355. Email: newswiremagazine@yahoo.co.uk. You will be glad you did
Download E-MagazineDo you want to be heard, your events covered, your articles published, or need to advertise your products and services on our Blog and Magazine, reach out to us at Newswire Law and Events, you will be glad you did. For more details about our services, please call: 08039218044, 09070309355. Email: newswiremagazine@yahoo.co.uk
