
Cholera Outbreak Hits Nigeria Amid Intensifying Rainy Season
Nigeria is currently facing a cholera outbreak, with an increasing number of cases being reported across various parts of the country as the rainy season intensifies.
NCDC Confirms Rising Cholera Cases
The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) confirmed the alarming rise in cholera cases in a statement released on Thursday. The NCDC highlighted the increasing trend of cholera infections nationwide and urged the public to remain vigilant.
Cholera Statistics: January to June 2024
From January 1 to June 11, 2024, a total of 1,141 suspected cases and 65 confirmed cases of cholera, resulting in 30 deaths, have been reported across 96 local government areas (LGAs) in 30 states. The NCDC identified the top 10 states contributing 90% of the cholera burden as Bayelsa, Zamfara, Abia, Cross River, Bauchi, Delta, Katsina, Imo, Nasarawa, and Lagos.
National Cholera Technical Working Group Response
Dr. Jide Idris, the Director General of NCDC, stated that the multi-sectoral National Cholera Technical Working Group, led by the NCDC, is actively supporting affected states. This group includes the Federal Ministries of Environment and Water Resources, the National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA), the World Health Organization (WHO), UNICEF, and other partners.
The support provided includes:
- Risk communication
- Active case search
- Laboratory diagnosis
- Case management
- Provision of response commodities
- Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) interventions
- Dissemination of cholera awareness jingles in both English and local languages
Understanding Cholera Transmission
Dr. Idris explained that cholera is a food and water-borne disease caused by ingesting the Vibrio cholerae bacterium found in contaminated water and food. He emphasized the following points:
- Water can be contaminated by the feces of infected individuals.
- Contamination can occur at the source, during transportation, or during storage at home.
- Food may be contaminated by soiled hands during preparation or eating.
- Beverages prepared with contaminated water, ice, and even commercial bottled water can transmit cholera.
- Cooked vegetables and fruits freshened with untreated wastewater are also potential transmission vehicles.
The incubation period for cholera ranges from two hours to five days. Areas with inadequate sanitation facilities and irregular clean water supply are at higher risk. Unsafe practices such as improper disposal of refuse and open defecation further compromise water safety.
Preventive Measures and Public Health Advice
Residents are advised to practice good hand hygiene, ensure safe water and food consumption, and avoid unsafe practices like open defecation. If symptoms such as watery diarrhea, vomiting, abdominal pain, general malaise, or fever appear, immediate medical attention is crucial.
Commitment to Combating Cholera
The NCDC, along with national and international partners, remains committed to combating the cholera outbreak and ensuring the health and safety of Nigerians. For more information and updates on cholera prevention and treatment, visit NCDC’s official website and follow their official health advisories.
Stay informed and take proactive measures to protect yourself and your community from cholera.