The National Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) has announced an outbreak of cholera. With 65 confirmed cases and 30 deaths from January to June across different local governments and states, it’s clear that the country is dealing with a serious public health crisis.
The data shared by the NCDC reveals over 1,141 suspected cases reported and 65 confirmed cases in 2024, with ten states contributing 90% of the total number. The ten states are: Katsina, Imo, Nasarawa, Bayelsa, Zamfara, Abia, Cross River, Bauchi, Delta, and Lagos.
The reported outbreak in Lagos State, resulting in numerous hospital admissions and deaths in two days, highlights the urgent need for coordinated efforts to control and prevent further spread of the disease.
Everything you need to know about Cholera
Cholera is an acute diarrheal infection caused by the bacterium Vibrio cholerae. It is a severe and potentially life-threatening disease that can kill within hours if left untreated. Cholera is primarily transmitted through contaminated food or water due to poor sanitation and hygiene. Cholera disproportionately affects people living in poverty with inadequate access to clean water and basic sanitation. Outbreaks are often exacerbated by factors like conflict, urbanization, and climate change.
Symptoms
The main symptoms of cholera include severe watery diarrhea, vomiting, and rapid dehydration. Patients can lose large volumes of fluids and electrolytes, leading to dehydration, shock, and even death if not treated promptly.
Treatment
The most effective treatment for cholera is rapid rehydration. This involves replacing the fluids and electrolytes lost through diarrhea and vomiting. Oral rehydration solution (ORS), which is a mixture of water, sugar, and salts, is the mainstay of treatment. Severe cases may require intravenous fluid replacement.
Antibiotics can also shorten the duration of illness, but they are not recommended for widespread use due to the risk of antibiotic resistance. Three oral cholera vaccines are currently available, providing varying levels of protection for 2–5 years. Prompt treatment with rehydration therapy and, in severe cases, antibiotics is essential to manage cholera effectively.
Health authorities are working diligently to contain the spread of the disease by implementing surveillance measures, treating affected individuals, and implementing public health interventions.
Prevention
The Director General of NCDC, Dr Olajide Idris, urges Nigerians to be wary of the increasing trend of cholera cases across the country as the rainy season intensifies.
He advised that to address the current outbreak, Cholera prevention involves ensuring access to clean water, practicing good hygiene, and promoting sanitation. Avoiding contaminated food and water sources, practicing proper handwashing, and maintaining hygienic practices can help prevent the spread of cholera.
