By Oluwatomisin Oyefusi
The cholera outbreak in Nigeria in 2024 was detected on January 1st and continued to be reported through mid-year, with significant cases being recorded by June 11, 2024. During this period, a total of 1,141 suspected cholera cases, 65 confirmed cases, and 30 deaths were reported across 30 states.The states that reported the most significant number of cases include:Lagos State: Approximately 350 suspected cases, with 15 confirmed deaths.Ogun State: 14 reported cases, with 1 death confirmed.
Cross River State: Although not heavily affected in the latest reports, it recorded cholera cases in the early 2024.Bayelsa, Zamfara, Abia,Bauchi, Delta, Katsina, Imo, and Nasarawa States. These states contributed to 90% of the cholera burden in the country.Overall, the country reported around 1,141 suspected cases and 30 confirmed deaths by mid – 2024. The outbreak was managed with measures like heightened surveillance, water quality analysis, public health advisories, and increased efforts in sanitation and hygiene . Several preventive measures were implemented and health practitioners provided crucial advice to the public to manage and mitigate the spread of the disease.
Preventive Measures
1.Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) Interventions: Efforts were made to improve access to clean water, promote proper sanitation, and enhance hygiene practices. This included the provision of clean drinking water, the installation of handwashing facilities, and the distribution of water purification and tablets.
2. Public Health Education: Extensive public awareness campaigns were conducted to educate people about cholera prevention. This included the dissemination of information on proper handwashing techniques, safe food preparation practices, and the importance of using clean water.
3. Vaccination Campaigns: Oral cholera vaccines were administered in high-risk areas to protect vulnerable populations and reduce the spread of the diseases.
Health practitioners also advised the public on several key practices to prevent cholera:Boiling and Storing Water: Ensure that drinking water is boiled and stored in clean, covered containers to prevent contamination.Hand Hygiene: Wash hands frequently with soap and clean running water, especially before handling food and after using the toilet.
Safe Food Practices: Ensure that food is well-cooked and consumed while hot. Avoid raw or undercooked seafood and other foods.Sanitation: Avoid open defecation and ensure proper disposal of waste. Use latrines or other appropriate sanitation facilities.Recognizing Cholera SymptomsCholera can cause severe diarrhea and dehydration. Symptoms typically appear within hours to days after infection.
Key symptoms include:Watery Diarrhea: Often described as “rice-water” stools, which are pale, milky, and have a distinct odor.Vomiting: Frequent vomiting can occur, contributing to dehydration.Rapid Dehydration: Signs of dehydration include dry mouth, extreme thirst, decreased urine output, sunken eyes, and rapid heart rate. If someone exhibits these symptoms, it is crucial to seek medical attention immediately. Rapid rehydration with oral rehydration salts (ORS) or intravenous fluids can be life-saving.By adhering to these preventive measures and being aware of the symptoms, the spread of cholera can be controlled and the impact of outbreaks minimized.