By Faham Ojuolape
Nigeria Battles Cholera Outbreak as Cases Rise
The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) has reported a significant increase in cholera cases across the country, with 113 cases and seven deaths recorded in just one week. The outbreak, which has affected 21 local government areas across three states, has raised concerns about the country’s ability to contain the spread of the disease.According to the NCDC’s situation report for week 25, Lagos State has been the hardest hit, accounting for 104 of the 113 cases reported. Ogun State has reported seven cases, while Katsina State has reported one case. The report also revealed that since the beginning of the year, a total of 1,579 suspected cases have been reported, with 54 deaths recorded across 32 states.
Cholera is a water- and food-borne disease that spreads through contaminated water and food. The symptoms include acute, profuse, painless watery diarrhoea, which can lead to severe dehydration and death if left untreated. The disease is particularly dangerous for children under the age of five, who account for the majority of cases reported so far.
The NCDC has responded to the outbreak by distributing medical supplies, including intravenous fluids, antibiotics, and diagnostic kits, to all medical centres nationwide. The agency has also provided offsite and onsite support to affected states, including Lagos and Ogun, and has trained laboratory scientists and community mobilisers on sample collection and analysis, as well as cholera prevention messages.
In addition, the NCDC has distributed jingles, flyers, and posters containing key messages on cholera prevention to all states and the Federal Capital Territory. The agency has also engaged with community leaders and religious leaders to raise awareness about the disease and promote good hygiene practices.
The cholera outbreak in Nigeria is a reminder of the country’s ongoing struggles with water and sanitation. Many communities lack access to clean water and proper sanitation facilities, making them vulnerable to water-borne diseases like cholera. The NCDC has urged states and local governments to prioritize water and sanitation infrastructure to prevent future outbreaks.