An overview of cholera outbreak in Nigeria - consequences and possible solutions

Abstract

Cholera is acute diarrheal disease caused by Vibrio cholerae bacterium, primarily transmitted through contaminated water and food. Nigeria has experienced recurrent cholera outbreaks, with significant public health, social, and economic impacts. This review examines the causes, responses, and challenges related to cholera outbreaks, along with potential solutions. The primary cause of cholera in Nigeria is inadequate access to clean water, poor sanitation, and improper waste disposal, leading to contamination of water sources. The disease affects areas with limited healthcare infrastructure and low hygienic standards. Despite efforts by the Nigerian government and foreign organizations to eradicate cholera, outbreaks persist, typically worsened by growing urbanization, seasonal flooding, and conflicts that impede healthcare delivery. The response to cholera outbreaks in Nigeria has included emergency vaccination campaigns, improved water treatment programs, and public health education. However, these efforts face significant obstacles, such as inadequate funding, lack of coordinated action between government agencies, and the persistence of unsafe water sources. To mitigate cholera’s impact, this review suggests several solutions, including improving access to clean water, enhancing sanitation infrastructure, and strengthening surveillance and early warning systems. Collaboration involving government, international organizations, and local communities is essential for preventing future outbreaks of cholera in Nigeria.