According to the Nigerian health authorities, over 2,100 suspected cases of cholera have been reported across 33 states of country.

This marks a significant rise from the 1,579 cases reported just a week ago, highlighting the rapid spread of the disease.

Briefing the press on the measures deployed against the outbreak on Tuesday, NCDC Director General, Jide Idris put the case fatality rate at 3.0 per cent.

He stated that the cases were recorded as of June 30th, 2024.

“As at 30th June 2024, we have recorded a total number of 2,102 suspected cases, 63 deaths across 33 states and 122 LGAs with a case fatality rate of 3.0 per cent,” he said.

“This also ensures effective mobilisation, harmonisation and distribution of resources to support the affected states. This is done through the relevant thematic areas of response that cover coordination, surveillance, case management, infection prevention and control, risk communication and community engagement, water sanitation and hygiene, vaccination, logistics, and research with an incident action plan for the response developed and being implemented".

According to Idris, Lagos, Bayelsa, Abia, Zamfara, Bauchi, Katsina, Cross River, Ebonyi, Rivers, and Delta account for almost 90% of cases.

He also linked the outbreak to the consumption of contaminated water and food, pointing out the highly contagious nature of the disease.

The DG noted inadequate toilet facilities, poor sanitation, and insufficient safe water as challenges to cholera eradication in the country, noting that the recently activated National Cholera Multisectoral Emergency Operation Centre (EOC) is providing strategic coordination.