The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) has issued an alert regarding a cholera outbreak in Nigeria, which has resulted in 30 deaths out of 65 confirmed cases recorded from January 1 to June 11. The cases span across 96 local government areas in 30 states.In a public health advisory released on Thursday, the NCDC highlighted the increasing trend of cholera cases across the country, exacerbated by the ongoing rainy season.
This follows a significant outbreak in Lagos State, where approximately 60 people were hospitalized and five died within 48 hours. The NCDC identified Bayelsa, Zamfara, Abia, Cross River, Bauchi, Delta, Katsina, Imo, Nasarawa, and Lagos states as contributing 90% of the cholera burden.
The advisory noted that the multi-sectoral National Cholera Technical Working Group, led by the NCDC and comprising the Federal Ministries of Environment and Water Resources, the National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA), the World Health Organization (WHO), UNICEF, and other partners, has been providing support to the affected states.
The NCDC also emphasized avoiding open defecation, indiscriminate refuse dumping, and ensuring proper waste disposal and frequent clearing of sewage. Individuals experiencing sudden watery diarrhea were advised to seek immediate medical attention and avoid self-medication.
Cholera is a food and water-borne disease caused by ingesting Vibrio cholerae bacteria from contaminated water or food. It is more likely to spread in areas with inadequate sanitation and limited access to clean water. The incubation period ranges from two hours to five days. Symptoms include sudden onset of profuse, painless watery diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, and fever. Severe cases can lead to death within hours due to dehydration.
The disease is treatable if detected early, with most cases managed successfully through the prompt administration of oral rehydration solution (ORS) and appropriate antibiotics. Immediate access to medical care is crucial to prevent fatalities.
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