The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) has reported a concerning 14,237 cases of cholera across 35 states and the Federal Capital Territory as of October 13, 2024. The outbreak, which has impacted 339 local government areas, has resulted in 378 deaths, yielding a case-fatality ratio of 2.7%, according to NCDC Director General Dr. Jide Idris.
At a press briefing in Abuja, Dr. Idris highlighted that cholera remains a critical public health challenge, particularly in regions lacking adequate water, sanitation, and hygiene infrastructure. The current surge in cases has been largely attributed to heavy rains and subsequent flooding, especially in northern states like Borno, Adamawa, Jigawa, Yobe, and Kano, which have become the epicenters of the outbreak. Earlier in the year, cases were primarily concentrated in southern states as the rainy season began.
Dr. Idris underscored the vulnerability of children under five, who have been disproportionately affected by the outbreak, noting that the number of cholera cases has more than doubled compared to the same period last year.
In response to the crisis, the NCDC has mobilized rapid response teams to the hardest-hit areas, collaborating with health ministries and stakeholders to control the disease's spread. High-level advocacy visits have been conducted in states like Borno to engage health leadership and support flood-displaced communities. Additionally, in partnership with the National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA), the NCDC has initiated reactive cholera vaccinations in internally displaced persons camps, leading to a significant reduction in reported cases.
Dr. Idris also revealed a rise in confirmed cases of Mpox in Nigeria, now totaling 102 across 26 states and the FCT, up from the previously reported 94 cases.
The NCDC continues to urge Nigerians to practice good personal hygiene, including regular hand washing with soap and water, and to seek immediate medical attention for cholera symptoms, such as severe diarrhea and vomiting. Dr. Idris reaffirmed the NCDC's commitment to enhancing surveillance, providing prompt treatment, and improving sanitation practices in affected communities, emphasizing that cholera is preventable through collective efforts.