NIGERIA – In Nigeria, the cholera outbreak has escalated significantly in 2024, with the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) reporting a total of 3,623 suspected cases and 103 deaths across 187 Local Government Areas (LGAs) in 34 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) since January.
This alarming situation translates to a cumulative case fatality rate of 2.8% as of mid-July. Jide Idris, the Director General of NCDC, revealed these figures during a press conference in Abuja on July 16, emphasizing the urgency of the crisis.
Idris noted a slight decline in cases, stating, “There was a 5.6% decline in the number of cases in this reporting week (8th -14th July) compared to the preceding week.”
However, he warned that the peak of cholera outbreaks often coincides with the rainy season, which could exacerbate the situation in the coming weeks.
He highlighted that northern states, typically hotspots for cholera, have reported fewer cases, possibly due to a delayed rainy season.
The cholera outbreak is not the only health concern for Nigeria. Idris pointed out a rise in other diseases, including yellow fever, Lassa fever, and meningitis. “Currently, there are three presumptive positive cases of yellow fever reported from Ekiti and Bayelsa, and one death,” he added, underscoring the country’s multifaceted public health challenges.
The spread of cholera is closely linked to environmental factors, particularly rainfall, which affects water quality and availability.
Heavy rains can wash pathogens into water sources, leading to contamination. Idris explained, “Intense rainfall can overwhelm sewage systems, causing untreated sewage to overflow into water supplies, increasing the risk of contamination.”
He also noted that flooding can displace populations, resulting in overcrowded shelters with inadequate sanitation, further heightening the risk of outbreaks.
Nigeria is set to receive cholera vaccines from Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance, in response to the cholera crisis.
Sania Nishtar, Gavi’s CEO, announced on July 19 that these vaccines would support government efforts to protect high-risk individuals. “We stand ready to work with our partners – UNICEF and WHO – to support Nigeria’s timely efforts to contain this outbreak,” she stated.
Health Minister Muhammad Pate expressed gratitude for the early access to vaccines and stressed their importance in combating the outbreak.
He stated, “We are expediting efforts to improve water and sanitation infrastructure in collaboration with various stakeholders.”
Pate acknowledged the early signs of a slowdown in infections but affirmed that efforts would continue to reverse the situation.
Cholera, caused by the bacterium Vibrio cholerae, is primarily transmitted through contaminated water and food.
Symptoms include severe diarrhea, which can lead to rapid dehydration and death if untreated.
The NCDC has implemented various response activities, including distributing medical supplies and training laboratory scientists on sample collection and analysis.
Idris reiterated the importance of public awareness in preventing cholera, highlighting ongoing campaigns to disseminate critical messages about hygiene and sanitation.
“We are distributing jingles, flyers, and posters containing key messages on cholera prevention to all states and the Federal Capital Territory,” he said.
As Nigeria grapples with this cholera outbreak, the government’s coordinated response, supported by international partners, aims to mitigate the impact of this public health crisis while addressing the underlying issues contributing to the spread of waterborne diseases.
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