The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) has confirmed the spread of the Sokoto and Zamfara strange disease to Kaduna, resulting in a total of 7 deaths. In response to this development, the NCDC has convened a high-level meeting with commissioners of health from the affected states to address the situation.
Dr. Jide Idris, the Director-General of the NCDC, disclosed that since the outbreak surfaced on March 21, 2024, a total of 196 suspected cases have been reported across Isa, Sabon Birni, and Ilella Local Government Areas (LGAs) of Sokoto State. Expressing concern over the potential spread of the disease to neighboring communities, Idris emphasized the urgency of the situation and highlighted the need for collaborative efforts to assess and respond to the outbreak.
The meeting with health commissioners from Sokoto and Kaduna States, as well as a phone conversation with Zamfara’s State Commissioner for Health, aimed to evaluate the situation and coordinate response activities. Challenges such as limited diagnostic capacity and the continued spread of the illness to neighboring localities were discussed during the meeting.
Idris underscored the importance of collaboration with sister agencies such as the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) and the National Institute for Pharmaceutical Research and Development (NIPRD) to ascertain the correct diagnosis of the illness. He assured that once the diagnosis is confirmed, the information will be shared with the public.
During the visit to treatment facilities, Idris witnessed firsthand the recovery of patients from the unknown illness, providing valuable insight into the effectiveness of ongoing treatment protocols.
Engagement with traditional leaders, including a visit to the Sultan of Sokoto, highlighted the importance of community involvement and support in combating the outbreak. The Sultan pledged support from the people of Sokoto in addressing the situation.