The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) has reported a significant increase in cholera cases in the country, with a 128% rise in cases and a 106% increase in fatalities.
According to the NCDC, Lagos state accounts for 60% of all cases, with Lagos Island being the most affected Local Government Area. As of September 1, 2024, there were 7,056 suspected cases, compared to 3,096 cases at the same point in 2023.
The death toll has also increased, with 204 fatalities reported in 2024, representing a 106% rise. The case fatality rate stands at 2.9%, slightly improved from 3.2% in 2023.
The NCDC has identified other heavily affected states as Bayelsa, Katsina, and Zamfara. The agency is intensifying efforts to contain the outbreak, including rapid diagnostic testing and stool culture tests.
Vulnerable groups, particularly children under five, remain the most affected. The NCDC has called for increased public awareness and intervention to curb the outbreak.
In June, the Nigerian government declared a state of emergency on cholera due to the high case fatality rate of 3.5%, above the national expected average of one percent.
Cholera is a severe diarrheal illness caused by the bacterium Vibrio cholera. Understanding its transmission mechanism is crucial in curbing its spread and implementing effective prevention measures.
The NCDC has assured that ongoing monitoring efforts are in place to track the outbreak and respond accordingly.
