Cholera outbreak not over despite decline in cases – NCDC warns
Nigeria Reports Decline in Cholera Cases, Cautions About Ongoing Spread
The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) has announced a significant decrease in cholera cases across the country but cautioned that the disease continues to spread in certain regions.
During a briefing on Friday, NCDC Director-General Dr. Jide Idris provided an update on the cholera and diphtheria outbreaks in Nigeria. He reported that since January, there have been over 65,000 suspected cholera cases identified in 35 states, affecting approximately 195 local government areas.
While the total number of cases has decreased, Idris noted that the mortality rate among reported cases has significantly improved compared to the same period last year. “This is important progress. But I want to be very clear: the outbreak is not over,” he stated.
Idris warned of a potential rise in cholera infections between late August and October, primarily due to the rainy season and the possibility of flooding. He explained that flooding can lead to the contamination of water sources and damage sanitation systems, thereby increasing the risk of transmission.
He highlighted the success of early treatment initiatives in improving patient outcomes, particularly in Borno State, where the majority of this year’s cases have been reported. “In Borno State, where the majority of this year’s cases have occurred, outcomes have been better where treatment has been brought closer to affected communities. We are also seeing better outcomes among people who seek care early,” Idris said.
Despite the positive developments in treatment, Idris emphasized that treating individual patients would not suffice to curb the spread of cholera. He pointed out that unsafe drinking water, open defecation, inadequate water systems, and poor sanitation and hygiene facilities are significant factors contributing to the ongoing transmission of the disease.
Idris urged government officials to invest continuously in water, sanitation, and hygiene infrastructure to mitigate the risk of future outbreaks.
In addition to cholera, Nigeria has reported over 10,000 confirmed cases of diphtheria this year, according to Idris. He acknowledged that while the number of confirmed cases remains high, the proportion of those resulting in death has decreased significantly compared with the same period last year.
