The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) has announced that the country has recorded 1,528 suspected cases of cholera and 53 deaths, spanning 31 states and 107 Local Government Areas (LGAs).
Dr. Jide Idris, the Director General of the NCDC, provided this update during a press briefing on Monday, addressing the current cholera situation in Nigeria. He revealed that the Federal Government has activated the National Emergency Operation Centre for cholera in response to the outbreak.
“As of June 24, 2024, 1,528 suspected cases and 53 deaths have been recorded across 31 states and 107 LGAs, resulting in a case fatality rate of 3.5 percent since the beginning of the year,” said Dr. Idris. “These fatalities are not just statistics but represent a significant loss of loved family members, spouses, parents, and often seasoned healthcare workers and team members.”
Dr. Idris emphasized that the situation is becoming more challenging as the rainy season intensifies. He also disclosed that experts who conducted a risk assessment last week have placed Nigeria at high risk for increased cholera transmission and its impact.
The NCDC continues to work with other health authorities and partners to curb the spread of cholera and mitigate its impact on affected communities.