The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) has reported a staggering 220% rise in suspected cholera cases in Nigeria for 2024. This alarming increase was detailed in the latest epidemiological report published on the NCDC’s official website.
Cholera, a severe intestinal infection primarily spread through contaminated food and water, predominantly affects communities with inadequate sanitation facilities. Contributing factors to the surge in cholera outbreaks include conflict, climate change, lack of access to safe water, poverty, underdevelopment, and population displacement from ongoing conflicts and natural disasters.
As of the end of epidemiological week 39, the NCDC recorded 10,837 suspected cases and 359 deaths, marking a 239% rise in fatalities compared to the previous year. The report noted a Case Fatality Rate (CFR) of 3.3%, slightly up from 3.1% in 2023.
