Yuletide: Celebrate Responsibly, Stay Vigilant Against Infectious Diseases, NCDC Urges Nigerians

As holiday celebrations kick off across the country, the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) has urged Nigerians to celebrate responsibly and remain vigilant against infectious diseases that typically spike during the festive period.

In a public health advisory issued by NCDC on Tuesday, its Director-General, Dr. Jide Idris, warned that increased travel, crowds, food sharing and the ongoing dry season create favourable conditions for the spread of illnesses such as Lassa fever, cerebrospinal meningitis, diarrhoeal diseases and foodborne infections.

He also raised concern over the growing misuse of antibiotics during the season, which contributes to antimicrobial resistance (AMR), a major threat to global health.

According to the advisory, Lassa fever remains one of the biggest risks, especially as the dry season drives rodents closer to homes. It reminded Nigerians that the disease is transmitted through food or household items contaminated by rat urine or faeces, or contact with body fluids of infected individuals.

To reduce risk, the agency advised families to store food securely, maintain clean surroundings, avoid bush burning and seek immediate medical attention if symptoms such as fever, vomiting or bleeding occur.

Cerebrospinal meningitis (CSM), another dry-season disease, also poses a serious threat. Dr. Idris urged Nigerians to avoid overcrowded spaces, improve ventilation, watch for symptoms such as neck stiffness, fever and sensitivity to light and ensure eligible children and adults are vaccinated.

With more cooking, travel and gatherings expected, NCDC cautioned against poor food hygiene, which could trigger outbreaks of diarrhoea and food poisoning.

The agency advised proper handwashing, thorough cooking, safe water consumption, adequate refrigeration of leftovers and preventing cross-contamination between raw and cooked foods.

Dr. Idris noted a worrying trend of self-medication during the festive season, especially with antibiotics taken for conditions such as colds, flu or fever which are often viral and do not require antibiotic treatment.

“Misuse of antibiotics weakens their effectiveness and makes infections harder and more expensive to treat,” the advisory stated, urging Nigerians to avoid buying antibiotics without prescriptions and to always complete prescribed doses.

The centre said it is maintaining round-the-clock disease monitoring, supporting state responses, strengthening laboratory systems and activating emergency processes throughout the holidays.

“Let’s celebrate responsibly. Together, we can reduce disease risks, protect our families, and ensure a safe and joyful festive season for all,” Dr. Idris stated.