2,102 cholera cases, 63 deaths recorded in 33 states – NCDC
Dr. Jide Idris, Director-General of the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention, reported that 2,102 suspected cholera cases and 63 deaths have been recorded across 33 states and 122 local government areas.
Idris shared this update in Abuja on Tuesday while discussing the cholera outbreak campaign. This comes as the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) has introduced strict camp guidelines with the start of the 2024 Batch B Stream I orientation course. The 21-day course aims to equip and train participants for the mandatory one-year service.
To ensure a successful program, Brig. Gen. Yushau Ahmed, NYSC Director-General, has issued strict instructions to camp coordinators and officials to prevent a cholera outbreak in orientation camps.
Cholera outbreak spreads across states
Cholera, caused by the bacterium Vibrio cholerae, is a highly contagious food and waterborne disease. Nigeria is experiencing a significant cholera outbreak, with cases rising from over 1,579 suspected cases and 54 deaths in 32 states to 2,102 cases and 63 deaths in 33 states within a week.
The outbreak has significantly impacted Lagos, Bayelsa, Zamfara, Abia, Cross River, Bauchi, Delta, Katsina, Imo, and Nasarawa. The primary causes are linked to contaminated water and inadequate sanitation, exacerbated by the rainy season, which often leads to flooding and compromised water sources.
Idris reported a 3.0% case fatality rate and noted that seven out of the top ten states contributing about 90% of cases are in the south. The National Cholera Multi-sectoral Emergency Operation Centre, activated to address the outbreak, coordinates resources and response efforts across thematic areas like surveillance, case management, and community engagement.
Working group activated
Before activating the EOC, the National Cholera Technical Working Group assessed cholera readiness in 22 high-burden states, sharing their findings to guide preparedness activities. The group also provides guidelines and supplies to all states and the Federal Capital Territory, supporting capacity-building for local health officials and public health advisories to raise awareness.
NYSC’s strict measures to prevent cholera in camps include enhanced sanitation, food safety, and regular health briefings. State coordinators and camp officials are implementing proactive measures, such as screening food vendors and improving hygiene practices.
Measures to prevent cholera in NYSC camps
States like Gombe, Sokoto, Benue, Kwara, and Kogi have initiated specific actions to ensure camp safety, including fumigation, sensitization programs, and collaboration with health authorities.
In response to cholera cases in Kogi, the state government formed a response team to manage the situation. Similarly, Oyo State established a Cholera Technical Working Group to prevent and respond to potential outbreaks.
House of Reps seeks urgent measures
The House of Representatives has urged the Federal Government to implement measures to control the cholera spread, emphasizing the need for public hygiene and health education.
