The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention, NCDC, has documented 1,598 suspected cases of cholera spread across 107 local government areas.

The cholera outbreak is distinguished by a case fatality rate of 3.5 per cent, which is notably higher than the national anticipated average of one per cent, highlighting the gravity of the situation.

Dr Jide Idris, the Director-General of NCDC, shared this information in Abuja on Monday, providing an update on the cholera epidemiological situation in Nigeria and the current prevention and response efforts at both national and sub-national levels. Cholera, caused by the bacterium Vibrio cholerae, is a severe diarrheal illness that continues to pose a significant health challenge, particularly in areas with inadequate sanitation and access to clean water.

Understanding the transmission of cholera is essential in controlling its spread and implementing effective prevention strategies.

Dr Idris expressed deep concern over the rapid spread and higher-than-expected mortality rate, indicating a more severe outbreak. He stressed that the fatalities represent significant personal losses, including those of family members, spouses, parents, and healthcare workers. As the rainy season intensifies, the situation could worsen.

Lagos State recorded the highest number of deaths at 29, followed by Rivers with eight, Abia and Delta with four each, Katsina with three, Bayelsa with two, and Kano, Nasarawa, and Cross River with one each.

Dr Idris emphasized the urgent need for a coordinated response to prevent further escalation of the crisis, with sixteen states accounting for 90 per cent of the confirmed cases, and Lagos being the epicenter of the outbreak receiving significant attention and resources to effectively manage the situation.