The Sokoto State Government has urged preventive measures to address the resurgence of Dengue fever in the state.

The state Commissioner for Health, Hajiya Asabe Balarabe, said in a statement on Sunday that the development was part of a recent public advisory.  

Ms Balarabe stated that although no deaths or bleeding cases had been reported, the state Ministry of Health was urging the residents to take preventive measures seriously to curb the spread of the viral illness.

She explained, “In recent times, the Ministry of Health in Sokoto received reports of fever cases in many parts of the state that were not responding to standard malaria treatment.

“The ministry collected samples from the affected cases, and the results indicated the presence of the Dengue virus in some cases.’’

She also said similar incidents occurred in the state in 2016 and 2019.

“Therefore, it is crucial that we all take steps to prevent the spread of this disease. Fortunately, no bleeding or fatalities have been reported from any case,” she added.

She emphasised that Dengue fever was a viral illness transmitted by the Aedes mosquito, characterised by symptoms such as high fever, severe headache, joint and muscle pain, and general weakness.

She urged the public to take necessary measures to eliminate mosquito breeding sites and encouraged the use of insecticide-treated nets for sleeping.

 “We should also maintain personal hygiene by wearing protective clothing and ensuring cleanliness. Furthermore, spreading awareness and educating our family, friends, and neighbours about preventive measures is essential in the fight against the disease,” she urged.

 She further urged the public to seek medical attention and directed health workers to be vigilant in diagnosing Dengue fever and providing appropriate supportive measures.

Reiterating that Dengue fever was a preventable disease, she added,” by taking simple precautions, the impact on the community can be significantly reduced.”

(NAN)