Sokoto Activates Health Surveillance in Response to Dengue Fever

The Sokoto State Government has heightened surveillance after eight laboratory-confirmed cases of Dengue fever were reported in Sokoto metropolis, including Sokoto North and Sokoto South Local Government Areas.

In a public health advisory on Sunday, the Ministry of Health alerted all public and private health facilities about rising cases of fever and severe malaria-like symptoms in several communities. Health workers were urged to intensify case detection and strengthen monitoring systems.

The Commissioner for Health, Dr. Faruk Abubakar, said swift measures had been taken to prevent further spread of the mosquito-borne disease, highlighting that initial symptoms often resemble malaria but require different clinical management.

“All healthcare workers are placed on high alert and asked to consider Dengue fever in patients presenting with fever, headache, joint pains, body pains, or rash—especially when malaria tests are negative or symptoms persist despite treatment,” the advisory stated.

The ministry directed all facilities to notify Local Government Disease Surveillance and Notification Officers of suspected cases immediately and ensure prompt sample collection for laboratory confirmation.

Abubakar also cautioned clinicians against using NSAIDs such as ibuprofen and aspirin in suspected Dengue cases, recommending paracetamol instead due to the higher risk of bleeding associated with the infection.

The state government emphasised strict adherence to infection prevention and control measures, safe waste disposal, and intensified community awareness campaigns to eliminate mosquito-breeding sites.

Health workers were encouraged to report unusual fever spikes, clusters, or deaths promptly to the Disease Surveillance Office or the State Epidemiology Unit.

“We urge all health workers to stay vigilant and work closely with public health authorities to manage and report cases promptly,” the commissioner said, commending their commitment to public health.

Dengue fever, spread by the Aedes mosquito, has been resurging in parts of Nigeria, prompting increased monitoring across the country.