Cholera hits Ogun
Cholera: Nigeria faces vaccine shortage as death toll hits 40
Nigeria – As the death toll from the latest cholera outbreak reaches 40, the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) has announced a critical shortage of vaccines. Dr. Jide Idris, Director General of the NCDC, confirmed that Nigeria has placed an order for additional cholera vaccines from donor agencies, but the delivery date remains uncertain.
Dr. Idris emphasized the importance of vaccines and other preventive measures to control the spread of cholera, a severe diarrhoeal disease caused by the ingestion of food or water contaminated with Vibrio cholerae. He noted, “We don’t have enough to prevent an outbreak because we need to give these things before that time. Most countries plan ahead. When it comes to health security, we are supposed to stockpile some things in anticipation of an emergency.”
Between 2021 and 2024, cholera has claimed 4,364 lives out of 139,730 suspected cases in Nigeria, according to NCDC reports. The rainy season has exacerbated the situation, with recent data showing an increase in cholera cases across the country. From January 1 to June 11, 2024, there were 1,141 suspected cases, 65 confirmed cases, and 30 deaths reported in 96 local government areas in 30 states.
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The NCDC identified ten states contributing to 90% of the cholera burden: Bayelsa, Zamfara, Abia, Cross River, Bauchi, Delta, Katsina, Imo, Nasarawa, and Lagos. Lagos State has seen a significant rise in cases, with 417 suspected cases, 35 confirmed cases, and 24 deaths as of June 19, 2024. The cholera outbreak in Lagos was traced to an unregistered tiger nut drink, highlighting the role of contaminated food and beverages in spreading the disease.
Dr. Idris stressed the need for improved personal, environmental, and sanitary hygiene to prevent cholera. He also mentioned that while cholera vaccines are not long-lasting, a combination of vaccination and preventive measures is essential.
Public health experts, including Prof. Tanimola Akande and Dr. Kenechukwu Igwegbe, advocate for preventive vaccination against cholera, especially given its recurring nature in Nigeria. The World Health Organisation has identified three oral cholera vaccines – Dukoral®, Shanchol™, and Euvichol-Plus® – that require two doses for full protection.
The NCDC, along with other agencies, is actively working to manage the outbreak. However, Dr. Idris highlighted the challenges in vaccine procurement and the need for better planning and resources. “Cholera vaccine demand is far ahead of supply, so most people who need them place orders and plan ahead. It is the same with all vaccines, not just cholera.”
As Nigeria grapples with this cholera outbreak, the focus remains on obtaining more vaccines and enhancing preventive measures to curb the spread of this deadly disease. The NCDC, in collaboration with international and local partners, continues to provide support and resources to the affected states, aiming to mitigate the impact of this public health crisis.
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