The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) announced on Monday that the current cholera outbreak has spread to 107 local government areas across the country.
This alarming development was disclosed by the NCDC Director General, Dr. Jide Idris, during a press briefing in Abuja.
Dr. Idris reported that Nigeria has recorded 1,528 suspected cases of cholera and 53 deaths across 31 states since the beginning of the year. The outbreak has severely impacted several states, including Lagos, Bayelsa, Zamfara, Abia, Cross River, Bauchi, Delta, Katsina, Imo, and Nasarawa.
The spread of cholera has been primarily attributed to the consumption of contaminated water and poor sanitation conditions, which have been exacerbated by the onset of the rainy season. The rainy season often leads to flooding and compromised water sources, creating a fertile environment for the transmission of cholera.
In Lagos State, the Commissioner for Health, Prof. Akin Abayomi, stated during a press conference in Ikeja on Monday that the state government would not be administering cholera vaccines at this time. He explained that the current outbreak in Lagos had declined, reducing the need for immediate vaccination efforts. However, he noted that the state had recorded 579 cholera cases and 29 deaths to date.
To address the nationwide outbreak, the Federal Government has activated the National Emergency Operation Centre for Cholera. This center is tasked with coordinating a comprehensive response to contain the spread of the disease and manage the treatment of affected individuals.
“As of June 24, 2024, 1,528 suspected cases and 53 deaths have been recorded across 31 states and 107 LGAs with a case fatality rate of 3.5 percent since the beginning of the year,” Dr. Idris stated.
The NCDC is urging the public to take preventive measures seriously, such as ensuring the use of clean and safe water, maintaining good personal hygiene, and adhering to proper sanitation practices. These measures are critical in controlling the spread of cholera and preventing further outbreaks.
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