Mirian Gom 
ABUJA, Nigeria – As millions of Nigerians prepare for end-of-year celebrations, the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) urges citizens to celebrate responsibly, warning that increased travel, crowded gatherings and the dry season heighten infectious disease risks nationwide.
In a public health advisory issued Tuesday and signed by the Director-General, Dr Jide Idris, the agency identifies Lassa fever, Cerebrospinal Meningitis (CSM), diarrhoeal diseases, foodborne illnesses and antimicrobial resistance (AMR) as major threats during the festive period.
“This period of increased travel, large gatherings and food sharing, coupled with the dry season, increases the risk of infectious disease transmission,” Idris says.
He warns that the misuse and overuse of antibiotics during festivities worsen AMR, making common infections harder and costlier to treat. “Antibiotics do not treat viral infections such as colds, flu or Lassa fever. Do not self-medicate,” he adds.
The NCDC stresses that Lassa fever remains a significant danger, transmitted through food contaminated by rodent urine or faeces and contact with infected body fluids. Households are advised to store food in covered containers, maintain clean environments and avoid bush burning that drives rodents indoors.
The agency also flags heightened meningitis outbreaks during the dry season, urging vaccination, especially in high-risk areas, and cautioning against self-medication.
Improper food handling, the advisory warns, may trigger widespread food poisoning. Citizens are urged to wash hands thoroughly, cook food properly, store leftovers safely, drink clean water and use clean utensils.
The NCDC reassures Nigerians that it continues nationwide disease surveillance, rapid testing and emergency response throughout the festive period. “If you feel unwell or observe a suspected case, call our 24/7 toll-free line, 6232,” the agency says, adding: “Together, we can reduce disease risks and ensure a safe festive season.”
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Korede Abdullah 
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