The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention has placed 10 states on high alert over a possible cholera outbreak, following forecasts of heavy rainfall and flooding.

In a statement released on Wednesday, the Director-General, Jide Idris, said projections by the Federal Ministry of Environment and the Nigerian Meteorological Agency indicate that parts of Adamawa, Enugu, Kaduna, Kogi, Niger, Osun, Oyo, Plateau, Taraba, and Kwara states will experience intense rainfall between April 13 and 17, 2026.

Idris noted that the warning comes at a critical period when cholera cases typically surge, adding that early surveillance data already shows rising infections in several states.

He explained that flooding could contaminate water sources and disrupt sanitation systems, creating conditions for the rapid spread of cholera.

Data from previous outbreaks show that flood-prone states often record spikes in cholera cases during the rainy season, especially in communities with limited access to clean water and poor waste management systems. In recent years, thousands of suspected cases have been recorded annually, with fatalities largely linked to delayed treatment and weak health infrastructure.

Beyond cholera, the NCDC warned of increased risks of other diarrhoeal diseases and mosquito-borne infections such as malaria, due to stagnant floodwaters serving as breeding grounds for mosquitoes.

The agency also highlighted potential dangers including drowning, snakebites, and disruption to healthcare access, particularly in rural and underserved communities.

Despite the risks, Idris stressed that the situation can be controlled through preventive measures. He urged residents in the affected states to use safe water, maintain proper hygiene, avoid contact with floodwaters, and seek medical attention promptly if symptoms appear.

He also called on community leaders and local authorities to intensify sanitation efforts, including clearing blocked drainage systems and promoting hygiene awareness.

The NCDC said it is working with state ministries of health to strengthen surveillance, improve preparedness, and support rapid response efforts. State governments have also been advised to activate emergency response frameworks, particularly in water, sanitation, and hygiene services.

Nigeria continues to face recurring flooding challenges, driven by climate variability, rapid urbanisation, and poor drainage infrastructure—factors experts say must be addressed to prevent future outbreaks.