By Sandra Ugwu 

Lagos, October 18, 2025

A sudden rise in cases of persistent cough, fever, and flu-like symptoms across Lagos has sparked public concern and fears of a possible COVID-19 resurgence. Hospitals and pharmacies report an unusual increase in patients showing respiratory symptoms similar to those experienced during the height of the pandemic.

Residents say the illness often starts with a sore or dry throat before progressing to a stubborn cough, high fever, and fatigue that linger despite malaria or flu treatment. Some patients told AnchorNews that entire households have been affected, with symptoms spreading rapidly from one person to another.

Health workers in Lagos confirm a sharp rise in such cases, with many describing the situation as reminiscent of the early days of COVID-19. A nurse in Oshodi said dozens of patients now present with fever and cough daily, while a doctor at LASUTH noted that even medical staff have fallen ill with similar symptoms.

Pharmacists across the city have also seen a spike in the demand for cold and flu medicines. In some pharmacies, drugs like Procold, Flu-J, and Chlorphenamine are reportedly selling out faster than malaria treatments, marking an unusual trend in Nigeria’s disease pattern.

Medical experts warn that the symptoms strongly resemble COVID-19 and call for renewed vigilance. Consultant family physician, Dr. Oluwajimi Sodipo, said many patients now present with upper respiratory infections. Infectious disease specialist, Dr. Iorhen Akase, added that weak surveillance and limited testing make it difficult to determine the exact cause.

Virologist Prof. Oyewale Tomori criticised the neglect of public health systems after the pandemic, warning that the closure of many testing laboratories leaves Nigeria vulnerable to another outbreak. He called for improved disease surveillance and border screening to detect possible reintroductions of the virus.

NCDC Director-General, Dr. Jide Idris, confirmed that the agency is monitoring the trend closely, particularly in Lagos, and has strengthened surveillance at airports, seaports, and land borders. He urged Nigerians to maintain hygiene, avoid crowded areas, and get tested when flu-like symptoms appear.

The development comes amid reports of rising COVID-19 cases in Europe, the United States, and parts of Asia. Health authorities in the UK and US have recorded new spikes linked to the “Stratus” variant, which the WHO says has spread to over 30 countries and shows higher immune evasion.

Experts warn that Nigeria may face similar challenges if testing and health surveillance remain weak. They urge authorities to restore diagnostic capacity and increase public awareness to prevent another wave of infections.

As uncertainty spreads, many Lagos residents are turning to self-care remedies and prayers, hoping the mysterious illness is a passing flu—and not a repeat of the pandemic the world is still trying to recover from.