Nigeria and Eight Other African Countries Report 67 Yellow Fever Cases, 18 Deaths - WHO
The World Health Organisation has announced that Nigeria, along with eight other African countries, has experienced a surge in yellow fever cases. Between January 1 and October 12, 2026, a total of 67 confirmed cases were reported, including 18 fatalities.
- Nigeria accounted for 44 of the confirmed cases and 12 deaths
- The other affected countries were:
- Burkina Faso: 10 cases and 6 deaths
- Cameroon: 10 cases and 2 deaths
- Central African Republic: 2 cases and 1 death
- Congo: 1 case and 1 death
- Gabon: 1 case and 1 death
- Guinea: 1 case and 1 death
- Guinea-Bissau: 1 case and 1 death
- Senegal: 1 case and 1 death
The World Health Organisation has urged the affected countries to intensify their vaccination campaigns and take necessary measures to control the spread of the disease.
"The recent outbreak of yellow fever is a cause for concern," said Dr. Olumide Oyebade, WHO representative in Nigeria. "We urge the governments and public health officials to step up efforts in vaccinating the population and implement effective measures to prevent the spread of the disease."
Yellow fever is a viral haemorrhagic disease transmitted to humans through the bite of infected mosquitoes or contact with contaminated blood.
"Yellow fever is a serious public health threat," stated Dr. Olumide Oyebade. "It is essential that countries take immediate action to mitigate the spread and reduce the number of casualties."
The WHO is working closely with the affected nations to provide technical assistance, vaccines, and other necessary resources to combat the outbreak.
"We are committed to supporting these countries in their efforts to control the outbreak and save lives," said Dr. Oyebade. "We are working closely with the authorities to distribute vaccines and provide guidance on disease prevention."
The World Health Organization urges the public to take precautions against the disease, including vaccination and mosquito control.
"The public should take urgent action to protect themselves and their communities," advised Dr. Oyebade. "Vaccinations and controlling mosquito populations are crucial in preventing the spread of yellow fever."
Yellow fever is a viral haemorrhagic disease transmitted to humans through the bite of infected mosquitoes or contact with contaminated blood.
"Yellow fever is a serious public health concern," explained Dr. Oyebade. "It is essential that people in affected areas take immediate action to prevent the spread of this disease."
<small>Source: Punch Nigeria — read the original story there.</small>
