Worst multiple viruses and public health threats that unleashed on Nigerians’ health and almost overwhelmed healthcare personnel. Hussaini Ibrahim Kafi in Kano, in introspective analysis highlights the key illnesses needing urgent actions to get rid off.
In 2024, Nigeria has grappled with a series of epidemics and disease outbreaks that have cast a shadow over public health and put enormous strain on the country’s healthcare system. Despite efforts by the government and health organizations to curb these outbreaks, the nation has witnessed a troubling rise in the number of affected individuals and, tragically, deaths.
In this special report, Hussaini Ibrahim Kafi chronicles the key disease outbreaks in Nigeria in 2024, highlighting their impact, the efforts to contain them, and the alarming death toll that has marked these health crises.
Cholera
Cholera, a waterborne bacterial infection, has once again surged in Nigeria, particularly during the rainy season. In 2024, cholera outbreaks have been reported across multiple states, with the most severe cases concentrated in the northern parts of the country. The NCDC reported that 359 had been confirmed died between January and September 2024, with 10, 837 suspected cases.
The rapid spread of cholera is exacerbated by poor sanitation, inadequate access to clean water, and the lack of proper healthcare infrastructure in many parts of the country. While the Nigerian government and international partners have responded with efforts to provide oral rehydration solutions, chlorination of water sources, and community-based health interventions, the outbreak has exposed the persistent gaps in the country’s public health system.
Lassa Fever
Similarly, Lassa fever, an acute viral haemorrhagic fever, continues to be one of Nigeria’s most persistent public health challenges. In 2024, the country experienced a significant surge in cases, particularly in the central and northern regions. According to the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC), as of mid-2024, over 800 confirmed cases were reported, with more than 120 deaths, resulting in a fatality rate of around 15%. This marked a sharp increase compared to the previous year, raising concerns about the resurgence of the disease.
The outbreak prompted a series of public health interventions, including increased surveillance, the distribution of antiviral treatments, and community awareness campaigns aimed at preventing rodent exposure, which is the primary mode of transmission. Despite these measures, Lassa fever remains a major concern, and the high number of cases in rural areas emphasizes the critical need for better healthcare infrastructure and public education.
Malaria
Nigeria, the most populous nation in Africa, bears the heaviest global burden of malaria, accounting for approximately 27% of global malaria cases and 31% of malaria deaths worldwide. The 2023 World Malaria Report tragically reveals nearly 200,000 malaria-related deaths within the country – according to UNICEF. Children under five and pregnant women remain the most vulnerable populations. The national malaria prevalence rate among children aged 6-59 months was recorded at 22% in 2021. In some regions, such as Kebbi State, this alarming rate surges to 49%.
Several factors are contributing to this resurgence. Resource shortages stemming from the COVID-19 pandemic and economic instability in developing countries have hampered malaria control programs. Furthermore, the changing climate, with rising temperatures favoring mosquito proliferation, and the growing resistance of the malaria parasite to existing drugs pose significant challenges.
To effectively address this crisis, increased government funding is crucial for strengthening health systems, supporting research and development of new drugs, and implementing effective malaria prevention and treatment strategies.
Tuberculosis (TB)
Similarly, Tuberculosis (TB) remains a persistent health threat, with Nigeria being one of the top 30 countries with the highest burden of the disease. In 2024, TB cases surged, especially in urban areas with overcrowded living conditions and limited access to healthcare. The NCDC reported an increase in TB diagnoses, with over 200,000 cases confirmed by mid-2024, and more than 15,000 deaths. The rise in multi-drug-resistant TB (MDR-TB) has further complicated efforts to manage and treat the disease.
In response, the Nigerian government, in partnership with global health organizations like the WHO, has intensified efforts to expand TB treatment programs and increase awareness about the disease. However, challenges such as stigma, poor diagnostic infrastructure, and inadequate healthcare delivery persist, making TB control efforts challenging.
In response, the Nigerian government, in collaboration with global health organizations, launched emergency vaccination campaigns in the worst-hit areas. However, experts have emphasized the need for consistent and comprehensive immunization programs to prevent future outbreaks.
Yellow Fever
Another major health concern that re-emerged in 2024 was yellow fever, a viral disease transmitted by mosquitoes. In the first half of the year alone, more than 500 suspected cases were reported, particularly in the southwestern and southeastern regions. Of these, over 150 were confirmed, and more than 40 people succumbed to the disease.
The outbreak was concentrated in areas with poor mosquito control and low vaccination coverage. In response, the Nigerian government and the WHO coordinated mass vaccination campaigns in high-risk areas, targeting millions of people to contain the spread of the disease. Despite these efforts, the challenge remains in ensuring that these campaigns reach every corner of the country, especially remote rural communities. Yellow fever continues to be a major public health threat in Africa, and Nigeria’s large population and tropical climate make it particularly vulnerable.
Monkeypox
Though the number of cases has been relatively low compared to other outbreaks, monkeypox continues to be a concern in Nigeria. The West African strain of monkeypox has caused occasional flare-ups, with a noticeable increase in cases in the southern regions in 2024. The NCDC confirmed more than 200 cases in 2024, with a fatality rate of around 3%.
The government, along with international organizations, has ramped up efforts to educate the public about the symptoms and risks associated with the disease. However, given the limited availability of specific vaccines and antiviral treatments, containment efforts have been hampered by a lack of resources in some regions.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the year 2024 has proven to be a year of significant public health challenges for Nigeria, as the nation battles multiple disease outbreaks. The rising death toll and the strain on the healthcare system underscore the urgent need for investment in healthcare infrastructure, better access to medical care, and robust disease surveillance. While the Nigerian government and international partners have taken steps to respond to these outbreaks, the scale of the challenges remains substantial.
Thus, increased efforts in vaccination, public health education, and investment in water, sanitation, and healthcare services will be crucial in reducing the impact of these diseases in the years to come. As Nigeria navigates the current crises, the lessons learned in 2024 must serve as a call to action to strengthen public health systems across the country to prevent future epidemics.
