Cholera and Lassa Fever Deaths Surge
The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) has reported that Lassa fever and cholera have claimed over 202 lives in the past six months. According to data released by the NCDC, the country witnessed 6,704 suspected Lassa fever cases and 162 deaths across 125 local government areas in 28 states. Additionally, the latest cholera outbreak resulted in approximately 40 deaths, highlighting the ongoing public health challenges.
Lassa Fever Statistics
The NCDC’s Lassa fever situation report, posted on its website on Friday, revealed a higher case fatality rate (CFR) of 17.8 per cent compared to 17.1 per cent during the same period in 2023. The report indicates that 28 states recorded at least one confirmed case across 125 local government areas. Notably, 65 per cent of all confirmed Lassa fever cases were reported in Ondo, Edo, and Bauchi states, with Ondo accounting for 25 per cent, Edo 22 per cent, and Bauchi 18 per cent. The predominant age group affected is 21-30 years, with an equal male-to-female ratio.
Cholera Vaccine Shortage
NCDC Director General Dr Jide Idris disclosed a significant shortage of vaccines, emphasising that Nigeria has placed orders for more cholera vaccines from donor agencies, though the delivery date remains uncertain. Dr Idris stressed the urgent need for the country to adopt vaccines and preventive measures to curb the spread of cholera, an acute diarrhoeal infection that can be fatal if untreated.
NMA’s Response to the Outbreaks
The Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) is collaborating with national health authorities and international organisations to contain the outbreaks. The NMA has deployed rapid response teams across affected states, implementing extensive monitoring and containment strategies. The association urged individuals, families, and communities to adhere to public health measures, such as practising good hygiene, ensuring access to safe drinking water, and seeking prompt medical attention for symptoms of diarrhoea and vomiting.
Experts Voice Concerns
Experts express concern over the recurrent outbreaks of cholera and Lassa fever in Nigeria. Professor Adesegun Fatusi, Vice Chancellor of the University of Medical Sciences, Ondo State, stated that the recurrent outbreaks highlight the low level of hygiene and health education among the populace. He urged both the government and individuals to take adequate actions to curb the spread of these preventable diseases.
Implications of Climate Change
Dr Oladipo Kolawole, a medical virologist and immunologist at Adeleke University, noted that the simultaneous outbreaks of cholera and Lassa fever place an immense burden on healthcare facilities. He warned that without addressing root causes such as inadequate water and sanitation infrastructure, the outbreaks may recur. Dr Kolawole also highlighted the impact of climate change, stating that heavy rains can lead to flooding, increased human-rodent contact, and contamination of water supplies, thus exacerbating the spread of these diseases.
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