Sokoto State has confirmed an outbreak of Dengue Fever, reporting eight laboratory-verified cases across Sokoto metropolis, including Sokoto North and South Local Government Areas.

The Ministry of Health warned of increasing reports of fever and severe malaria-like symptoms and urged health workers to step up surveillance and case detection.

Health Commissioner Faruk Abubakar said the state is taking proactive steps to prevent the disease from spreading, noting that many symptoms look like malaria but need different treatment.

“All healthcare workers are hereby placed on high alert and requested to maintain a high index of suspicion for Dengue Fever in patients presenting with fever, headache, joint pains, body pains or rash—especially where malaria RDT is negative or symptoms persist despite treatment,” the advisory said.

Facilities were told to immediately notify the local government disease surveillance and notification officers of suspected cases and collect proper samples for confirmation.

Abubakar also advised doctors against using NSAIDs like ibuprofen and aspirin in suspected Dengue cases, recommending paracetamol instead due to bleeding risks.

The state urged strict infection control, safe waste disposal, and community action to remove mosquito breeding sites.

Health workers were told to report unusual fever spikes, clusters, or deaths promptly to disease surveillance offices.

“We encourage all health workers to remain vigilant and cooperate fully with public health authorities to manage and report cases promptly,” the commissioner said, praising their dedication to protecting residents’ health.