Cholera Cases Decline in Nigeria, Outbreak Not Over

During a press briefing on Friday, Dr. Jide Idris, the Director-General of the NCDC, reported that Nigeria has recorded over 65,000 suspected cholera cases across 35 states and approximately 195 Local Government Areas (LGAs) this year. He noted that the death rate from cholera cases has significantly decreased compared to the same period last year.

Despite this progress, Idris cautioned that the cholera outbreak is not over, predicting a potential rise in cases between late August and October due to the ongoing rainy season and flooding, which could contaminate water sources and disrupt sanitation systems. He highlighted that early access to treatment has improved outcomes, particularly in Borno State, where most cases have occurred.

Idris stressed that treatment alone cannot end cholera transmission and called for sustained action on water, sanitation, and hygiene to prevent future outbreaks. He also mentioned the ongoing diphtheria outbreak, with over 10,000 confirmed cases this year, and emphasized the need for improved vaccination coverage.