14 Jun 2024 | 09:56 AM UTC
Nigeria: Elevated cholera activity reported in multiple areas in June
Elevated cholera activity reported in multiple areas in Nigeria in June. Use strict food and water precautions.
Health officials have reported elevated cholera activity in multiple areas in Nigeria, with 1,141 total cases (65 confirmed cases) reported Jan. 1-June 11. This is compared to the 2,052 suspected cases reported over a similar period in 2023. The 10 states that account for 90 percent of reported cases in Nigeria include Bayelsa, Zamfara, Abia, Cross River, Bauchi, Delta, Katsina, Imo, Nasarawa, and Lagos.
Local and international health authorities continue to provide disease outbreak support to affected states, including risk communication, active case search, laboratory diagnosis, water sanitation and hygiene interventions, and dissemination of cholera awareness materials to the public. This report represents the most up-to-date information as of June 14.
Consult a travel medicine provider before departure regarding cholera vaccination. Practice strict food and water precautions. Seek immediate medical attention if symptoms develop within a week of being in affected areas.
Cholera is an endemic and seasonal disease in Nigeria, which occurs annually with increased risk during the rainy season and in areas with poor sanitation. Health authorities reported roughly 3,683 total cholera cases in Nigeria in 2023, 23,763 cases in 2022, and 111,062 cases in 2021.
Cholera is transmitted directly through food or water contaminated with fecal material from an infected person. Most infected people develop no symptoms or only mild diarrhea. However, approximately one in 10 infected people develop severe cholera, which causes symptoms including profuse, watery diarrhea, vomiting, rapid heart rate, low blood pressure, muscle cramps, restlessness or irritability. Symptoms typically appear 2-3 days after exposure, but can develop up to 5 days after exposure. Individuals with severe cholera can develop acute renal failure, severe electrolyte imbalances, and coma. If left untreated, these can lead to shock and rapid death.
