The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) has issued a warning about the potential spread of cholera through beverages, ice, and drinks prepared with unclean or contaminated water, News About Nigeria reports.
The NCDC stated that cholera symptoms include acute, profuse, painless watery diarrhoea, commonly referred to as ‘rice water stools’, which can occur suddenly and may be accompanied by vomiting, nausea, and fever.
In severe cases, cholera can lead to death within hours due to rapid dehydration, although around 80% of those infected may exhibit only mild symptoms or remain asymptomatic.
In Nigeria, cholera is both endemic and seasonal, with outbreaks typically peaking during the rainy season and predominantly affecting areas with poor sanitation.
This year, the states most heavily impacted by the cholera outbreak—accounting for 90% of cases—include Bayelsa, Zamfara, Abia, Cross River, Bauchi, Delta, Katsina, Imo, Nasarawa, and Lagos.
From January 1 to June 11, 2024, cholera cases have been reported across 96 local government areas in 30 states.
Experts attribute the prevalence of the disease to factors such as high population density, inadequate water supply, and poor hygiene practices.
Dr. Jide Idris, Director General of the NCDC, revealed that the agency is conducting a risk assessment and providing support to states affected by the outbreak.
He said that early detection and prompt treatment to manage the disease effectively are important.
On Tuesday, the NCDC’s official X handle, NCDCgov, issued a reminder: “Beverages, ice, and drinks prepared with unclean or contaminated water can spread #cholera. Protect yourself and your loved ones; do not buy or consume foods or drinks prepared with water from unreliable sources.”
To prevent the spread of cholera, the NCDC advised the public to use water from reliable sources and take measures to ensure its safety.
These measures include boiling water before drinking, storing water in covered containers, and ensuring that bottled water and sachet water are properly sealed.
The agency stated that cholera is easily treatable if detected early.
Most cases can be managed successfully with the prompt administration of Oral Rehydration Solution (ORS) to replace lost fluids and electrolytes, along with appropriate antibiotics.
The NCDC also pointed out preventive measures such as access to safe drinking water, proper sanitation and waste disposal, and good hygiene practices, including regular handwashing.
They advised avoiding raw fruits and vegetables, food from street vendors, and raw or undercooked seafood.
State governments have been urged to prioritise initiatives that ensure access to safe water, basic sanitation, and proper hygiene practices to mitigate the risk of cholera outbreaks in their communities.
