Cholera in Nigeria

01 Nov 2013

The Ministry of Health has confirmed 86 deaths and 1623 cases in the cholera outbreak that is affecting six states of Nigeria. Zamfara state in the north-west is the worst affected with 51 deaths and 1110 cases, followed by Nasarawa state with nine deaths and 105 cases.

Other affected states include Plateau, 11 deaths and 130 cases, Lagos, 4 deaths and 134 cases, Oyo, 6 deaths and 29 cases and Ogun with 5 deaths and 115 cases.

The ministry of health has directed release of adequate quantities of medicine and cholera kits to all the affected states for prompt treatment of cases.

Other steps taken to control the outbreak include mobilization and sensitization of clinicians and relevant healthcare workers in areas affected and enhancement of health promotion/public awareness campaigns.

Advice for Travellers

Travellers to outbreak areas who will be mixing closely with the local population and cannot ensure safe drinking water can be immunised against cholera. A high standard of food, water and personal hygiene should also be maintained.