Mon Oct 07 20:55:06 UTC 2024: ## Cholera Outbreak in Nigeria Reaches Alarming Levels, Deaths Surge 239%

**ABUJA, NIGERIA –** Nigeria is facing a severe cholera outbreak, with the number of suspected cases rising by an alarming 220% and fatalities increasing by a staggering 239% compared to 2023, according to the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC).

As of the end of epidemiological week 39, the country recorded 10,837 suspected cases and 359 deaths, with a case fatality rate (CFR) of 3.3%. This represents a significant increase from the 3.1% CFR recorded in 2023.

The NCDC attributes the outbreak’s severity to factors including limited access to sanitation, conflict, climate change, and inadequate safe water supplies.

**Lagos State Hardest Hit**

Lagos State has been the most affected, accounting for 43% of the total suspected cases. Lagos Island Local Government Area alone represents 5% of the country’s overall cases.

**Children and Men Disproportionately Affected**

Children under five years old are the most affected by the outbreak, followed by those aged between five and 14. The male population accounts for 52% of suspected cases, while females make up 48%.

**NCDC Response**

The NCDC has activated a national multi-sectoral Cholera Technical Working Group to monitor and respond to outbreaks across the country. They are emphasizing the importance of improving sanitation, providing access to clean water, and implementing public health education campaigns to curb the spread.

**Challenges and Concerns**

The NCDC has identified several challenges hindering efforts to curb the outbreak, including:

* Open defecation in affected communities
* Poor access to potable water and sanitation supplies
* Lack of skilled personnel in states
* Inadequate Information, Education, and Communication (IEC) materials at the community level
* Insufficient supplies and logistics for case management

**Global Cholera Concerns**

The WHO has reported a global surge in cholera deaths, with a 71% increase in 2023 compared to 2022. The organization attributes this increase to conflict and climate change.

Public health experts are urging for immediate action to address the cholera outbreak in Nigeria, highlighting the need for enhanced intervention strategies and continuous community engagement to combat this deadly disease.

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