NCDC Confirms 30 Cholera Deaths as Suspected Cases Surge to 1,141 Across 30 States

The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) has confirmed 30 deaths from cholera among 1,141 suspected and 65 confirmed cases reported across 96 local government areas in 30 states.

In a public health advisory issued on Thursday, the NCDC identified Bayelsa, Zamfara, Abia, Cross River, Bauchi, Delta, Katsina, Imo, Nasarawa, and Lagos as the ten states contributing to 90% of the current cholera burden in the country.

Cholera, a disease caused by ingesting Vibrio Cholerae bacteria through contaminated food and water, continues to pose a significant public health challenge. The NCDC explained that water contamination typically occurs through the feces of infected individuals, potentially at the source, during transportation, or during home storage.

Food contamination can occur via soiled hands during preparation or consumption. The NCDC also noted that beverages made with contaminated water, street-vended ice, commercial bottled water, and vegetables and fruits washed with untreated wastewater are common transmission vehicles.

The NCDC urges strict adherence to hygiene practices and proper sanitation to curb the spread of cholera.