Cholera outbreak not over despite decline in cases – NCDC warns

The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) has observed a significant decrease in cholera cases nationwide, yet cautioned that the disease remains active in various regions. NCDC Director-General, Dr Jide Idris, conveyed this warning during a recent briefing on the cholera and diphtheria outbreaks in Nigeria. Idris disclosed that over 65,000 suspected cholera cases have been documented in 35 states and 195 local government areas since the year's inception.

Despite the reduction in cases, he emphasized that the fatality rate among reported instances was notably lower than during the same period last year. "This represents positive advancement, but I must stress unequivocally: the outbreak has not concluded," Idris asserted.

He cautioned that cholera infections might surge once more between late August and October due to the rainy season and potential flooding. According to Idris, flooding has the potential to contaminate water supplies and compromise sanitation infrastructure, thereby elevating the risk of additional transmission. The director highlighted that early intervention has contributed to enhanced survival rates, particularly in Borno State, which has borne the brunt of this year's cases.

"In Borno State, where the vast majority of this year's cases have transpired, outcomes have been more favorable when treatment is brought nearer to the affected communities. We are also witnessing improved results among individuals who seek care at the earliest opportunity," he explained. Nonetheless, he underscored that treating patients alone is insufficient to curb the disease's spread.

"While treatment undoubtedly saves lives, we cannot out-treat our way out of cholera," Idris stressed. He identified unsafe drinking water, open defecation, damaged water systems, and inadequate sanitation and hygiene facilities as key factors perpetuating cholera transmission. Idris contended that governments must persist in investing in water, sanitation, and hygiene measures to prevent recurrent outbreaks.

Furthermore, Nigeria has documented more than 10,000 confirmed diphtheria cases this year, according to the NCDC director. He noted that the number has remained elevated, yet the proportion of confirmed cases resulting in death has significantly decreased compared to the same period last year.