NCDC Warns of Politicization in Cholera Outbreak Response

The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) has expressed alarm over the politicization of the cholera outbreak response in the country. The NCDC identified several challenges impeding efforts to contain the disease, including delays in diagnosis, shortages of critical supplies, and weak surveillance systems.

An emergency response team has been deployed to affected states, with ongoing surveillance and case management initiatives. The report highlighted that inadequate access to safe drinking water, particularly in urban areas like Maiduguri and Jere, remains a primary driver of ongoing transmission.

The NCDC is conducting active case searches and providing technical support to state response teams. Training for healthcare workers on cholera case management and infection prevention is underway, with a focus on improving treatment outcomes.

Additionally, hygiene promotion campaigns have reached 12,000 people in affected communities. Despite these efforts, the NCDC warns that challenges continue to shape the outbreak's trajectory, particularly due to delays in seeking medical attention.