NCDC Issues New Health Guidelines - What You Should Know

Nigeria’s forefront agency in the fight against diseases, the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) has rolled out new national health guidelines aimed at disease prevention, response, and public safety. In this article, you will learn about what these guidelines cover, why it matters, and how individuals and organisations should respond as well as useful tips to take note of.

What the New Guidelines Cover

Below is the list of the latest guidelines recently released by the NCDC which covers several key areas of public health. Let’s take a closer look at each of them.

1. Enhanced surveillance and early reporting - According to this latest guideline, health facilities have a shorter timeframe to report suspected cases of priority illnesses such as Diphtheria, Lassa fever, Cholera, and emerging severe infections. This move is aimed at increasing chances of effectively treating such chronic diseases.
2. Infection Prevention & Control (IPC) upgrades - In line with best practices across the globe, NCDC has rolled out new IPC best practices including stricter hygiene standards in healthcare settings and thorough cleaning techniques.
3. Vaccination strategies - Vaccination has always been key to effective containment of outbreaks. With the new protocol implemented by the health agency, vaccines have become a mandate in nationwide immunisation campaigns.
4. Community engagement and awareness - Communities must be well informed of the dangers of life-threatening diseases. There is a need for accurate information to take the place of myths and superstitious beliefs about certain health concerns.
5. Private Sector Roles & Public Education - Schools and business administrations must equip offices and learning institutions with hand hygiene stations and ventilation upgrades. Daily sanitation which includes proper hand washing, cough etiquette and social distancing should be maintained wherever applicable.

Why These Updates Are Timely

No doubt, the last Coronavirus pandemic shook the pillars of the country to the bone - while we can safely say we are past such an exponential level of exposure witnessed during that timeframe, it would be dangerous to assume such occurrence is no longer possible. While global pandemic such as the Ebola virus and Coronavirus often grab headlines, we run the risk of ignoring other lesser but also deadly diseases.

According to NCDC, Nigeria recorded over 24,800 suspected cases of diphtheria and 1,264 deaths by February 2025 especially among unvaccinated children. Also the recurring lassa fever outbreaks in major cities across the country is a major cause of alarm. The death toll in Q1 2025 seems to be on an upward rise - a call for action is non-negotiable at this point.

What You Should Do Now

For Individuals & Families

1. Stay updated about trending topics in the health sector through the official NCDC channels online and beware of malicious and wrong mythical beliefs on matters that concern health.
2. Vaccination is key. Take charge of you and your family's safety by taking vaccines.
3. Practice good hygiene by washing hands frequently, wearing masks in crowded spaces, and proper use of sanitiser.

For Schools & Public Institutions

1. Staff and management should be adequately trained on updated IPC guidelines.
2. Proper sanitization including regular cleaning, handwashing, and physical distancing measures should be effectively enforced.
3. Educate students on the importance of vaccinations, early reporting and good hygiene.

For Businesses & Workplaces

1. Provision of sanitizers and hand washing systems should be put in place.
2. Encourage remote work where feasible and avoid large staff gatherings as often as possible.

For Healthcare Providers

1. Great priority should be given to hand hygiene, surface decontamination, and adequate isolation wards.
2. Laid-down health guidelines should not be ignored.
3. Assist in creating awareness on healthcare guidelines and reinforcing vaccine importance.

The NCDC’s updated health guideline is a step forward in boosting Nigeria’s disease prevention and outbreak response structure.The centre aims to curb the impact of Diphtheria, Lassa fever, and other lesser known but deadly diseases affecting Nigerian citizens.

Next Steps:

1. Be alert! Stay informed through NCDC’s official channels across social media platforms.

2. Vaccinate - ensure you and your relatives are up-to-date on routine immunizations.

3. Adopt hygiene habits at home, in schools, and workplaces.

Check the websites for more https://ncdc.gov.ng/