The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) has reported a troubling total of 10,837 suspected cholera cases and 359 related deaths across all states in Nigeria since the start of this year. This alarming statistic highlights the ongoing public health crisis that the country is facing.
The latest situation report from the NCDC reveals that children aged five and under are the most affected demographic among the suspected cases. Following this group, the 5-14 age range also shows significant numbers, indicating a concerning trend in the impact of cholera on younger populations.
In terms of gender distribution among the suspected cases, the report indicates that 52% are males while 48% are females. Notably, Lagos state has been identified as a major contributor, accounting for 43% of all suspected cases nationwide, with a total of 4,667 cases reported.
The increase in suspected cholera cases this year is particularly alarming, as it has surged by 220% compared to the figures reported during Epi-week 39 of 2023. This spike underscores the urgent need for effective public health interventions to control the outbreak.
Additionally, the cumulative deaths attributed to cholera have risen by 239% in 2024, further emphasizing the severity of the situation. The NCDC’s data indicates that in September alone, there were 87 deaths and 1,938 suspected cases recorded, along with 254 Rapid Diagnostic Tests (RDT) conducted, yielding 175 positive results.
See also: JUST IN: Nigeria has Reported 39 Cases of Mpox and 5,951 Cases of Cholera.
In the past week, 198 new suspected cases were reported across five states, leading to 15 additional deaths and a weekly case fatality rate (CFR) of 7.6%. This statistic reflects the critical state of the outbreak and the need for prompt response measures.
The states that have been most affected during week 39 include Adamawa, Ebonyi, Borno, Kano, and Jigawa. Adamawa, in particular, continues to be a hotspot, with 535 suspected cases reported in the past month, highlighting the ongoing challenges in managing the outbreak.
Other states such as Jigawa, Kano, and Borno have also reported significant numbers of cases, indicating the widespread nature of the cholera outbreak across the country. Specifically, Jigawa recorded 870 cases, while Kano and Borno reported 588 cases each, further stressing the need for comprehensive health strategies.
The NCDC report serves as a crucial reminder of the importance of continued vigilance and response efforts to combat the cholera outbreak. As the situation evolves, it is essential for health authorities and communities to remain proactive in their efforts to mitigate the impact of this disease.
In conclusion, the current cholera outbreak in Nigeria poses a serious public health challenge, particularly for vulnerable populations such as young children. Ongoing monitoring, effective treatment, and preventive measures are vital to control the spread and reduce the fatalities associated with this disease.
