Nigeria’s health agency, the NCDC, reported 3,623 suspected cholera cases and 103 deaths across 34 states and the Federal Capital Territory as of July 15th.
While there has been a 5.6% decrease in cases compared to the previous week, officials warn the peak of the outbreak may coincide with the rainy season, still weeks away.
Dr. Jide Idris, NCDC Director-General, said at a press briefing that children under five are most affected, with males accounting for slightly over half the cases. He highlighted a decline in the case fatality rate from 2.9% to 2.8%.
Despite the positive trend, concerns remain. Underreporting is suspected due to limited resources for surveillance at the state level. Additionally, some northern states, traditionally more affected, have reported fewer cases, possibly due to the delayed rainy season.
Dr. Idris urged continued vigilance, emphasising that the current decline may not signal the end of the outbreak. He stressed the importance of improved surveillance and disease detection efforts across the country.
