Cholera Epidemic Alert

 

The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) has reported an increase in cholera cases across the country, with 30 deaths and 1,141 suspected cases recorded from January to June 11, 2024. The NCDC and other healthcare agencies are working to contain the outbreak, but it's essential that we take immediate action to prevent further spread of this deadly disease.

 

Firstly what is Cholera?

 

CHOLERA is a water-borne disease caused by the bacterium Vibrio cholerae, spread through contaminated foods and water. Cholera causes acute watery diarrhoea (watery stool) which can lead to severe dehydration in a short period and if left untreated can result in DEATH within hours. Other Symptoms Include: Vomiting, general body weakness, rapid heart rate and resulting shock.

 

How is Cholera Spread?

 

CHOLERA Spreads Fast, (But it can be stopped). Cholera is spread through the ingestion of food or water contaminated with the bacterium Vibrio cholerae. Some ways cholera can be spread include:

 

- Contaminated water supplies/sources e.g streams, lakes, reservoirs

- Food handled by someone who has the bacteria

- The vomitor stool of an infected person getting into the water and food

- Poor environmental sanitation

- Not cooking food properly (undercooked)

- Not washing hands or utensils

- Unwashed fruits and vegetables

- Unhygienic environments

 

Symptoms of Cholera

 

Know the Signs of Cholera:

 

- Watery Diarrhea/ Rice Water Stools (10-20 stools a day, up to 40 times in severe cases)

-Followed by Vomiting (clear or pale yellow in appearance)

- And resulting Dehydration and electrolyte imbalance

Other symptoms include 

- Shock

- Thirst

- Dry mouth

- Dark urine

- Sunken eyes

- Muscle cramps

- General body aches and pains

 

Seek medical attention immediately if you or someone you know has these symptoms!

 

Cholera Facts

 

- Cholera affects 1.3 million to 4.0 million people worldwide each year

- About 21,000 to 143,000 people die from Cholera annually

- Cholera is a global health concern

- Affects both children and adults

- Can spread rapidly in crowded areas

- Poor sanitation and hygiene increase the risk of cholera

- Children are more susceptible to cholera and its complications

- Children under the age of 5 are at the highest risk of death from Cholera

 

How to Prevent Cholera

 

In light of the recent announcement by the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) regarding the outbreak of cholera in certain parts of the country, it is crucial that we take proactive measures to safeguard our health and wellbeing by 

 

1)Making Water Safe:

 

- Use water from reliable sources

- Boil water before drinking

- Store water in properly sealed containers

- Ensure bottled water is properly sealed before drinking

 

2)Safe Food Preparation:

 

WASH IT, PEEL IT OR COOK IT

 

- Wash fruits and vegetables with clean, running water

- Peel fruits before consuming

- Cook food well and cover properly when not immediately consumed

 

3)Practice Proper Hygiene

 

- Wash Your Hands with soap and water

- Practice Environmental Hygiene

- STOP open defecation

- Wash your hands frequently and thoroughly with soap and clean, running water

- Wash hands before and after eating

- Wash hands before and after using the toilet

- Use alcohol-based sanitizer (OSH) if soap and water are not available

- STOP indiscriminate refuse dumping

- Ensure proper disposal of waste and proper clearing of sewage

 

How to Treat Cholera

 

CHOLERA Treatment is Simple and Effective!

 

- Oral Rehydration Therapy (ORT)

- Intravenous fluids

- Antibiotics (in complicated cases)

 

 

 

Cholera is a preventable disease. By being mindful of our water intake, maintaining good hygiene practices, avoiding contaminated food and drinks, and ensuring proper sanitation, we can significantly reduce the risk of infection. Let's work together to create a safe and healthy environment for ourselves, our loved ones, and our community. Remember, every small action counts, and collective efforts will help prevent the spread of cholera. Let's Stop Cholera Together!

 

Join us in the fight against cholera!

 

- Share this awareness campaign

- Practice good hygiene

- Support cholera prevention efforts

- Donate to organizations working to prevent cholera

 

Together, we can create a healthier community! Let's break the cycle of cholera transmission!


Aliyu Usman Bello writes for PANS-BUK Public Health Team.