Cholera, a preventable yet potentially deadly disease, has resurfaced in Nigeria, prompting urgent attention. As of Epidemiological Week 9, 2025 (3 February – 2 March 2025), the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) reported 973 suspected cases across 30 Local Government Areas (LGAs) in nine states. This resurgence underscores the persistent challenges in water sanitation and public health infrastructure.
This article provides a comprehensive overview of the current cholera outbreak, detailing the affected regions, statistical data, and the NCDC’s recommendations for prevention and control. By understanding the scope and scale of the outbreak, individuals and communities can take informed steps to protect themselves and curb the spread of the disease.
Current Cholera Statistics in Nigeria
The latest data from the NCDC indicates a concerning rise in cholera cases. Between 3 February and 2 March 2025, 973 suspected cases were reported across 30 LGAs in nine states. While specific details on confirmed cases and fatalities were not provided in the latest report, the widespread nature of the outbreak highlights the need for immediate public health interventions.
Cholera is primarily transmitted through contaminated water and food, making access to clean water and proper sanitation crucial in preventing outbreaks. The disease can cause severe dehydration and death if not promptly treated, emphasizing the importance of early detection and treatment.
The NCDC continues to monitor the situation closely, working with state health authorities to implement control measures and provide necessary support. Public awareness campaigns and community engagement are also being intensified to educate the populace on preventive practices.
Affected States and LGAs
The cholera outbreak has been reported in nine states, with the following LGAs accounting for 85% of the total suspected cases:
Ekeremor, Bayelsa: 88 cases
Ogbia, Bayelsa: 67 cases
Andoni, Rivers: 60 cases
Yenegoa, Bayelsa: 57 cases
Brass, Bayelsa: 51 cases
Akuku Toru, Rivers: 47 cases
Sagbama, Bayelsa: 44 cases
Umuahia North, Abia: 30 cases
Borgu, Niger: 28 cases
Makurdi, Benue: 26 cases
Kolokuma/Opokuma, Bayelsa: 20 cases
Patani, Delta: 19 cases
Bayelsa State is notably the most affected, with multiple LGAs reporting high numbers of suspected cases. The concentration of cases in specific regions underscores the need for targeted interventions and resource allocation to these high-burden areas.
Efforts are underway to strengthen surveillance, improve water and sanitation infrastructure, and provide medical assistance in the affected LGAs. Community engagement and education are also being prioritized to promote preventive practices and early treatment-seeking behavior.
NCDC’s Public Health Advisory
In response to the escalating cholera outbreak, the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) has issued a comprehensive public health advisory aimed at curbing the spread of the disease and safeguarding public health.
Recommendations for the General Public:
– Ensure Access to Safe Water: Use water from safe sources. If the safety of water is uncertain, boil it before use or treat it with appropriate water purification methods.
– Maintain Proper Sanitation and Hygiene: Regular handwashing with soap and clean water, especially before eating and after using the toilet, is crucial.
– Seek Immediate Medical Attention: Individuals experiencing symptoms of cholera, such as profuse watery diarrhea, vomiting, and rapid dehydration, should promptly visit the nearest healthcare facility.
Guidelines for Healthcare Workers:
– Adhere to Standard Safety Precautions: Healthcare providers should consistently use personal protective equipment, including gloves, when attending to patients to prevent infection.
– Enhance Surveillance Efforts: Healthcare facilities are encouraged to intensify surveillance and promptly report suspected cholera cases to the appropriate health authorities for timely response.
The NCDC emphasizes the importance of community engagement and public awareness in controlling the outbreak. By adhering to these guidelines, individuals and healthcare workers can play a pivotal role in preventing the spread of cholera and protecting public health.
Government and NCDC Response Measures
The Nigerian government, through the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC), has implemented several measures to address the ongoing cholera outbreak.
Monitoring and Support:
– National Cholera Technical Working Group (TWG): This multi-sectoral group continues to monitor response activities across the states, ensuring a coordinated approach to outbreak management.
– State Support: The NCDC is providing support to affected states, including the deployment of Rapid Response Teams to assist with outbreak investigation and control measures.
Laboratory Testing:
– Stool Culture Tests: A total of 56 stool culture tests have been conducted, with 23 returning positive results. This laboratory confirmation aids in understanding the outbreak’s dynamics and tailoring response strategies accordingly.
These concerted efforts aim to contain the outbreak, minimize fatalities, and prevent further spread. The NCDC continues to collaborate with international partners, state governments, and other stakeholders to strengthen Nigeria’s capacity to manage cholera outbreaks effectively.
Preventive Measures and Public Awareness
Preventing cholera requires a multifaceted approach focusing on clean water access, proper sanitation, and public education.
Importance of Clean Water and Sanitation:
– Access to Clean Water: Communities should ensure that drinking water is sourced from safe and treated supplies. In areas where this is challenging, boiling water before consumption is recommended.
– Proper Sanitation: The construction and use of hygienic latrines, along with the proper disposal of waste, are essential in preventing the contamination of water sources.
Community Engagement:
– Public Education Campaigns: The NCDC, in collaboration with state health authorities, is intensifying public awareness campaigns to educate communities about cholera prevention and the importance of early treatment.
– Community Participation: Engaging local leaders and community members in planning and implementing preventive measures ensures that interventions are culturally appropriate and more likely to be adopted.
By prioritizing these preventive measures and fostering community involvement, Nigeria can make significant strides in controlling the current outbreak and preventing future occurrences.
The resurgence of cholera in Nigeria, with 973 suspected cases reported across 30 LGAs in nine states as of early 2025, highlights the ongoing challenges in water sanitation and public health infrastructure. The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) has issued advisories and is actively working with state governments to control the outbreak.
Individuals are urged to follow NCDC guidelines to prevent the spread of cholera, including ensuring access to safe water, maintaining proper sanitation and hygiene, and seeking immediate medical attention if symptoms appear. Healthcare workers and state authorities should continue surveillance and response efforts to contain the outbreak effectively.
By collectively adhering to these measures, Nigeria can overcome the current cholera outbreak and strengthen its resilience against future public health challenges.
