Cholera Deaths Surge to 378, Mpox Cases Rise to 102 – NCDC Warns of Public Health Crisis

The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) has reported 14,237 cholera cases across 35 states and the Federal Capital Territory, affecting 339 local government areas as of October 13, 2024. During a press briefing in Abuja, NCDC Director General Dr. Jide Idris revealed that cholera has claimed 378 lives.

He also noted that confirmed Mpox cases have risen to 102 across 26 states and the FCT, up from 94 previously. Dr. Idris stated, “Cholera remains a serious public health issue, particularly in areas with inadequate water, sanitation, and hygiene systems,” but added that the NCDC is working with stakeholders to curb its spread.

“As of October 13, 2024, a total of 14,237 cases of cholera have been reported across 35 states and the FCT, spanning 339 local government areas. Sadly, 378 lives have been lost, resulting in a case-fatality ratio of about 2.7 per cent. The burden of this outbreak disproportionately affects the most vulnerable—children under the age of five,” he said.

Dr. Idris explained that two major waves of cholera occurred this year, with the most recent spike during the week of September 29, following heavy rains and flooding. “This is a pattern we anticipated, having foreseen the risks through data and advisories provided by the Nigerian Meteorological Agency,” he said. He further highlighted that flooding in northern states such as Borno, Adamawa, Jigawa, Yobe, and Kano has intensified cholera’s spread, making these areas the current hotspots.

“Earlier in the year, the cholera cases were concentrated in southern states as the rains began there, but we have seen a shift, with northern states now accounting for a significant portion of cases. The number of suspected cholera cases and deaths in 2024 has more than doubled when compared to this time last year,” Idris said, adding that the numbers reflect the severity of the outbreak. He emphasized that addressing issues such as access to clean water, open defecation, and poor sanitation should be prioritized at both the national and local levels.

The NCDC has deployed rapid response teams, including experts from health-related ministries, to the northern states most affected. Advocacy visits have been made, including to Borno State, to engage state health leaders, support displaced communities, and encourage response teams. “Our efforts have been bolstered by collaboration with the National Primary Health Care Development Agency. Together, we have successfully supported our sister agency, the NPCHDA, to carry out reactive cholera vaccinations in internally displaced persons camps, a move that has proven crucial in reducing cases,” Idris said.