Over 65,000 suspected cholera cases recorded in 35 states – NCDC

The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) reported over 65,000 suspected cases of cholera across 35 states and 195 local government areas this year. NCDC Director-General Dr Jide Idris disclosed this in a situation report. However, he noted a significant decline in weekly cholera cases and death rates compared to the same period last year. He stressed that while the decline is encouraging, the outbreak is not over.

The NCDC also reported a substantial increase in confirmed cases of diphtheria this year, with Borno, Kano and Bauchi states bearing a significant burden. Dr Idris attributed the spread of diphtheria to low vaccination coverage and issues like vaccine hesitancy, insecurity, and hard-to-reach communities. He emphasized that diphtheria is preventable through vaccination and called for improved vaccination coverage and access to all eligible children who have missed vaccine doses.

NCDC is implementing interventions to control both outbreaks, including strengthening surveillance, laboratory capacity, supporting case management, and engaging affected communities.