Government and stakeholders must urgently address the cholera outbreak in Lagos State, which has spread to over 30 other states. With primary and secondary schools in Lagos resuming after the Sallah festivities, many parents are worried about their children’s health, keeping them home to avoid the disease. The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) has declared a cholera emergency, emphasizing the need for swift action to save lives and prevent educational disruptions.
Cholera is a severe infection caused by consuming food or water contaminated with Vibrio cholerae bacteria. It spreads rapidly in areas with inadequate sewage treatment and contaminated drinking water. Symptoms include sudden diarrhea, vomiting, and dehydration. While mild cases can resolve in a week with medical care, severe cases can be fatal within hours if untreated.
The NCDC reported that from January 1 to June 11, 2024, there were over 1,141 suspected cholera cases and 65 confirmed cases across 96 local governments in 30 states. Lagos, Bayelsa, Zamfara, Abia, Cross River, Bauchi, Delta, Katsina, Imo, and Nasarawa bear 90% of the disease burden. Lagos State recorded 350 suspected cases in 29 wards, with 17 confirmed and 15 deaths due to severe dehydration.
Health Commissioner Prof. Akin Abayomi identified Lagos Island as the outbreak’s epicenter, with 106 cases reported. The situation worsened with 401 suspected cases and over 20 deaths in Lagos, while the national toll reached 53 deaths. Dr. Kemi Ogunyemi, Special Adviser to the Lagos Governor on Health, linked the increase to large gatherings during Sallah.
NCDC Director-General Dr. Jide Idris announced the activation of the National Cholera Multi-Sectoral Emergency Operation Centre (EOC). Since the start of 2024, 1,528 suspected cases and 53 deaths have been recorded in 31 states, with a case fatality rate of 3.5%. The Lagos cholera death toll rose from 24 to 29.
Large gatherings, such as school resumptions and events, may increase cholera risk among children and young adults. Global institutions like WHO, UNICEF, and IOM are collaborating with the Nigerian government to combat the outbreak. UNICEF Lagos Field Chief Celine Lafoucrier highlighted the critical impact on children, who are prone to severe dehydration and high mortality rates.
Swift action is crucial to defeat cholera and save lives. Public enlightenment on cholera causes, symptoms, and prevention is essential. Hygiene and clean water are vital for prevention. The NCDC leads a multi-sectoral National Cholera Technical Working Group, including WHO, UNICEF, and other partners, to support affected states.
State governments must take practical steps to contain cholera and provide medical care. Efforts should focus on places with large gatherings, such as the upcoming National Youth Service Scheme (NYSC) orientation camps. Ensuring camp cleanliness and enforcing hygiene rules can help prevent cholera spread.
Action against open defecation is critical as it contaminates water sources. Cholera has been found in seemingly clean places, including affluent neighborhoods, hotels, and restaurants with poor hygiene practices. Awareness campaigns should target restaurants, and food vendors near schools, and public spaces.
Preventing child deaths from cholera is vital, as parents already face high living costs, expensive medical care, insecurity, unemployment, high electricity tariffs, and low wages. Effective measures against cholera can alleviate some of these burdens.
Source: The Guardian
