The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) has reported a concerning rise in cholera cases across the country. As of June 30, 2024, there are 2,102 suspected cholera cases and 63 deaths recorded in 33 states and 122 local government areas (LGAs). The NCDC Director-General, Dr. Jide Idris, provided this update during a press briefing in Abuja.
Cholera, a highly contagious disease, spreads through contaminated food and water. The current outbreak has severely impacted states like Lagos, Bayelsa, Zamfara, Abia, Cross River, Bauchi, Delta, Katsina, Imo, and Nasarawa. The rainy season’s onset has exacerbated the situation, leading to more cases due to flooding and compromised water sources.
To combat this outbreak, the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) has enforced strict guidelines in their orientation camps. The NYSC Director-General, Brig. Gen. Yushau Ahmed, instructed camp coordinators to prevent cholera from spreading within the camps. The 2024 Batch B Stream I orientation course, a mandatory 21-day program for new corps members, is now under these rigorous health measures.
The NCDC’s emergency response includes the activation of the National Cholera Multi-sectoral Emergency Operation Centre. This center coordinates efforts across various sectors and provides strategic support to affected states. Dr. Idris mentioned that the top 10 states, contributing about 90% of the cases, include Lagos, Bayelsa, Abia, Zamfara, Bauchi, Katsina, Cross River, Ebonyi, Rivers, and Delta.
Preventive measures in the NYSC camps include improved sanitation, regular health checks for cooking staff, and enhanced hygiene practices. NYSC spokesperson Eddy Megwa confirmed that all camp officials have been briefed on preventing cholera, and proactive steps have been taken to ensure a clean and safe environment for corps members.
In Gombe State, the NYSC has begun sensitization programs emphasizing personal and environmental hygiene. Similarly, in Sokoto State, the NYSC is collaborating with the state health ministry and NCDC to ensure a safe orientation program. Benue and Kwara states have also implemented various measures, such as screening food vendors and fumigating camps.
Meanwhile, Kogi State reported two cholera cases in Lokoja and Omala LGAs. The state health ministry has formed a response team to address the outbreak, consisting of healthcare workers, surveillance officers, and laboratory technicians.
The Oyo State Government has also taken steps to prevent cholera by setting up a Cholera Technical Working Group to coordinate multi-sectoral approaches. Although no confirmed cases have been reported in Oyo, the government is on high alert due to outbreaks in neighboring states.
The House of Representatives has called for urgent measures to control the cholera spread. Following a motion by House Minority Leader Kingsley Chinda, the House urged federal and state governments to enhance public hygiene awareness and improve access to clean water.