Cholera risks rise in Nigeria; unknown disease breaks out in Burundi
Authorities warned in Nigeria The risk of cholera linked to the floods is increasing, while Lassa fever continues to claim lives despite a decline in weekly cases. Meanwhile, new threats are emerging, including an unknown disease in Burundi.
Nigeria: Cholera warning ahead of floods
Nigeria is bracing for a potential surge in waterborne diseases as heavy rains are forecast for this week. The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) has warned of a high risk of cholera and diarrheal disease outbreaks in at least ten states, including Kaduna, Oyo, and Niger.
Health authorities have noted that flooding contributes to the pollution of water sources, increasing cases of malaria and other environmental diseases. Historically, flood seasons have been linked to outbreaks of epidemics in vulnerable areas.
The National Centre for Disease Control in Nigeria recommends using treated drinking water, improving personal hygiene practices, and avoiding stagnant water.
Communities have been urged to immediately report any symptoms, including diarrhea, vomiting, and fever. Authorities are also working to strengthen epidemiological surveillance and coordinate with states to mitigate the health impacts of the flooding.
In a separate development, Africa's most populous nation reported a death from Lassa fever in Oyo State, prompting renewed health warnings. Since November 2025, 685 confirmed cases and more than 4,000 suspected cases have been recorded.
Despite a decrease in the number of weekly infections, the death rate rose to 24.81 TP3T, up from 18.81 TP3T the previous year. A total of 170 deaths were recorded in 2026.
The disease remains endemic and affects 22 states. Authorities have activated response mechanisms, including contact tracing and enhanced surveillance.
Experts pointed to ongoing challenges in early detection and access to care, amid continued pressure on the health system.
An outbreak of an unknown disease in Burundi
The Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) reported an outbreak of an unidentified disease in Burundi that has killed five people and sickened 35 others. The disease was first detected in late March 2026, and the outbreak is concentrated in Mbanda province.
Symptoms include fever, vomiting, and diarrhea, with neurological and respiratory complications in severe cases. Laboratory tests have ruled out major hemorrhagic fever.
According to the World Health Organization, the tests came back negative for Ebola and Marburg viruses, Rift Valley fever, yellow fever, and Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever.
Dr. Lydwine Badarahana, Burundi’s Minister of Health, stated: “Although these initial findings are reassuring regarding the absence of these serious diseases, investigations are actively continuing to identify the causative agent.”.
She added: “All necessary measures are being taken to protect public health and prevent any potential spread.” A multi-sectoral team has been deployed to identify the pathogen and contain its transmission.
