The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention has launched a comprehensive advisory to combat the spread of cholera, a serious food and water-borne disease caused by Vibrio cholerae bacteria. The advisory, prominently featured on NCDC’s official website, underscores the critical importance of maintaining rigorous hygiene and sanitation practices to mitigate the risk of transmission.
According to the advisory, all food must be thoroughly cooked before consumption, and raw fruits and vegetables should be washed meticulously with safe water. Emphasizing the need to safeguard cooked food and boiled water from contamination, the NCDC advises reheating leftover food thoroughly before consumption to prevent bacterial growth.
Individuals suffering from diarrhoea are cautioned against handling food or water for others to prevent the further spread of infection. The NCDC stresses the imperative of avoiding open defecation and indiscriminate waste disposal, advocating instead for proper waste management and sewage clearance to curtail disease transmission.
The NCDC’s advisory extends to healthcare settings, urging healthcare workers to adhere strictly to safety protocols, including wearing gloves when handling patients to minimize the risk of transmission. The agency underscores the importance of prompt reporting of suspected cholera cases to facilitate timely intervention and prevent outbreaks from escalating.
Highlighting the broader public health implications, the NCDC calls upon state governments to prioritize initiatives that enhance access to clean water, basic sanitation facilities, and hygiene practices across communities. This includes bolstering infrastructure for clean water supply and waste management to safeguard public health and prevent future outbreaks.
In collaboration with partners, the NCDC continues to lead efforts in responding to cholera outbreaks, advocating for urgent improvements in water, sanitation, and hygiene infrastructure to protect vulnerable populations. The initiative aligns with global efforts endorsed by the World Health Organization to combat cholera through comprehensive public health strategies.
Cholera, as described by Science Nigeria and the WHO, typically spreads through contaminated water and food, particularly in environments lacking adequate sanitation facilities. The disease manifests with symptoms ranging from acute watery diarrhoea to severe dehydration, potentially leading to death within hours if untreated.
Effective treatment for cholera involves prompt administration of oral rehydration solution to replenish lost fluids and electrolytes, supplemented by appropriate antibiotics in severe cases. The NCDC stresses the importance of early detection and access to medical care to reduce mortality rates associated with cholera outbreaks.
Preventive measures recommended by the NCDC include boiling water before consumption, maintaining proper hand hygiene through regular handwashing with soap and water, and avoiding consumption of raw or undercooked food. These measures are crucial in reducing the risk of cholera transmission and safeguarding public health.
As Nigeria grapples with recurrent cholera outbreaks, the NCDC’s advisory serves as a cornerstone in raising awareness and promoting proactive measures to protect communities. By advocating for robust public health interventions and community engagement, the NCDC aims to mitigate the impact of cholera and enhance resilience against future outbreaks.
The NCDC’s proactive stance underscores its commitment to advancing public health through evidence-based strategies, ensuring that Nigerians are equipped with the knowledge and resources to combat cholera effectively. As the country navigates ongoing health challenges, collaborative efforts between government agencies, healthcare providers, and communities remain essential in safeguarding public health and well-being.
