By Joke Kujenya
RECENT CHOLERA outbreaks in Nigeria has resulted in the tragic loss of 53 lives, according to the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC).
The Director-General of NCDC, Dr Jide Idris, revealed this somber news during a press conference in Abuja.
He said the outbreak has spread significantly, with 1,528 suspected cases reported across 107 local government areas spanning 31 states and the fatality rate, currently at 3.5% for the year, underscores the severity of the situation, placing Nigeria at a heightened risk level.
In response to the crisis, the National Cholera Multi-Sectoral Emergency Operations Centre (EOC) has been activated to coordinate swift and effective measures.
Cholera, caused by the bacterium Vibrio Cholerae and typically contracted through contaminated food or water, remains a persistent global health threat, indicative of societal disparities and insufficient development.
Similarly, Lagos State has reported a distressing increase in fatalities linked to the outbreak, bringing the death toll to 29. Among the 579 patients treated across various healthcare facilities in the state, including general hospitals and private clinics, many succumbed due to delayed hospitalization, underscoring the critical need for prompt medical intervention.
Speaking at a briefing in Alausa, Ikeja, State Commissioner for Health, Prof. Akin Abayomi, acknowledged the challenges faced but assured the public of proactive management, highlighting ongoing efforts to ascertain the outbreak’s source and reiterated the state’s commitment to providing free treatment to curb further transmission.
Despite these efforts, Abayomi emphasized the importance of preventive measures such as safe drinking water, thorough food preparation, and maintaining hygienic environments, commending collaborative efforts involving various agencies and urged residents to prioritize hygiene practices to stem the spread of cholera.
He said that as investigations continue and efforts intensify, the nation remains vigilant in combating this escalating public health crisis, striving to mitigate its impact on vulnerable communities nationwide.
