The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) has reported 14,237 cases of cholera and 378 deaths in 35 states and the Federal Capital Territory as of October 13, 2024.
The Director-General of NCDC, Dr. Jide Idris, who made this known during a press briefing in Abuja on Thursday, noted that cholera remains a significant public health concern, particularly in regions lacking adequate water, sanitation, and hygiene facilities.
Dr Idris attributed the recent surge in cases to heavy rains and flooding, which have worsened the situation in northern states such as Borno, Adamawa, and Kano, currently the hardest-hit areas.
”Earlier in the year, the cholera cases were concentrated in southern states as the rains began there, but we have seen a shift, with northern states now accounting for a significant portion of cases. The number of suspected cholera cases and deaths in 2024 has more than doubled when compared to this time last year.
In response, the DG said ”the NCDC has deployed rapid response teams, including experts from our one health line ministries, to the affected northern states. These teams have been instrumental in coordinating with and supporting the local response by guiding interventions, and providing critical supplies, including medicines, water purification tablets, infection prevention and control (IPC) materials, and diagnostic tools. High-level advocacy visits, including to Borno State, were conducted to engage with the state’s health leadership, encourage response teams, and offer our support to communities displaced by floods.
Mpox cases rise to 102, no deaths reported
Addressing the Mpox outbreak, Dr Idris confirmed 102 cases across 26 states with no fatalities.
He noted that the increase in reported cases was due to improved surveillance and case detection efforts.
”The NCDC, in collaboration with international partners, is working to prevent cross-border transmission and has launched a vaccination campaign targeting high-risk states, he maintained.
Lassa Fever and Meningitis Preparedness
Providing an update on Lassa fever, Dr. Idris emphasized the need for continued vigilance as the dry season approaches, when cases typically rise.
Regarding cerebrospinal meningitis, he said the Agency had trained over 400 healthcare workers to handle the expected seasonal rise in cases, to ensure they are equipped to handle and manage the situation effectively.
Monitoring the Marburg Virus
Dr. Jide Idris said the Agecy is closely monitoring a Marburg virus outbreak in Rwanda, which poses a risk due to frequent travel between the two countries.
He assured that while there was no specific treatment for Marburg, Nigeria is prepared to isolate cases and has stocked medical supplies.
The NCDC continues to advocate for preventive measures, including proper sanitation, vaccination, and early medical intervention, to reduce the impact of these infectious diseases – FRCN
