The Nigerian government has issued a warning that the ongoing flooding and rainfall may exacerbate the spread of cholera, which has already claimed 63 lives and affected 2,102 people since the outbreak began.
Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Joseph Terlumum, urged local governments to intensify efforts in clearing drainages and canals to avert flood-related disasters.
The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) has activated the National Cholera Multi-Sectoral Emergency Operations Centre (EOC) to coordinate a robust response to the outbreak.
The Director General of NCDC, Jide Idris, attributed the outbreak to the ingestion of contaminated food and water, and expressed concern over the challenges posed by open defecation, inadequate toilet facilities, and poor sanitation.
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The government has shown strong political will to control the outbreak, establishing an inter-ministerial cabinet committee to support response efforts.
The World Health Organisation (WHO) has reported a global resurgence of cholera cases, with Africa recording 92,789 cases across 14 countries, and 1,698 deaths.
The Nigerian government has advised citizens to take precautions to prevent the spread of cholera, including avoiding contaminated food and water, and practicing good hygiene.
