The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) has reported 53 deaths and 1,528 suspected cases of cholera across 31 states and 107 local government areas since the beginning of the year.
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The Director General of NCDC, Dr Jide Idris, disclosed this while providing an update on the cholera epidemiological situation in Nigeria and ongoing prevention and response efforts at the national and sub-national levels.
Dr Idris expressed concern about the worsening cholera situation as the rainy season progresses, potentially exacerbating the outbreak.
“These fatalities are not just statistics but a significant loss of a loved family member, a spouse, a parent, and often a seasoned healthcare worker and team member. He stated.
Dr Idris said in response to the escalating situation, the NCDC has activated the National Cholera Emergency Operation Centre (EOC).
“The decision to activate the Cholera Emergency Operation Centre underscores the gravity of the situation and our unwavering commitment to protect the health and well-being of every Nigerian”. Dr. Idris said.
“Cholera, a highly contagious disease transmitted through contaminated food and water, has significantly impacted several states.
Dr. Idris explained, “It is caused by the ingestion of the organism Vibrio cholerae in contaminated water and food.”
To address the outbreak, He said NCDC has conducted a dynamic risk assessment involving experts from various Ministries, Departments, and Agencies, (MDAs).
“The outcome of the risk assessment placed the country at ‘High Risk’ of increased cholera transmission and impact. This demands our immediate and coordinated actions”. Dr. Idris noted.
“The Emergency Operation Centre will coordinate national response efforts, support affected states, and facilitate rapid communication and resource mobilization. An Incident Manager has been appointed to oversee daily activities, including surveillance, case management, vaccine issues, infection prevention, logistics, and research”. He added.
Dr. Idris said prior to activating the EOC, NCDC had already undertaken several preventive and response measures.
“We have prepositioned and distributed medical supplies for case management, infection prevention, and control, and laboratory diagnosis to all states”. Dr. Idris said.
He also sympathized with the families affected by the outbreak and acknowledged the efforts of all stakeholders involved in responding to the crisis.
Dr. Idris urged all stakeholders, including government agencies, healthcare professionals, and community leaders, to intensify efforts to contain the spread and prevent further loss of lives.
