The Federal Government of Nigeria is considering requesting emergency cholera vaccines from the Vaccine Alliance, Gavi, to control the ongoing outbreak.
Gavi’s CEO, Dr. Sania Nishtar, expressed concern on social media about the situation in Nigeria and stated that Gavi is ready to assist with vaccine supplies.
Dr. Nishtar tweeted, “Deeply concerned about the ongoing #cholera outbreak in Nigeria. @Gavi and partners are closely monitoring the cholera outbreak, and stand ready to support the government to quickly respond, including to request emergency vaccine doses where needed.”
Three World Health Organisation-approved oral cholera vaccines are available: Dukoral®, Shanchol™, and Euvichol®. These vaccines need two doses for full protection.
The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) activated its Emergency Operation Centre (EOC) on Monday due to the seriousness of the outbreak.
Dr. Jide Idris, NCDC’s Director General, explained that the EOC would coordinate the response across the country, support affected states, and improve communication, data analysis, and decision-making.
Dr. Idris said the EOC “will ensure efficient deployment of needed resources, strengthen surveillance and diagnostic capacity and capabilities, enhance case management, training and intensify public awareness and community engagement activities.”
While the NCDC reported 54 deaths and 1,579 suspected cholera cases in 32 states as of Wednesday, Dr. Muntari Hassan, leading the EOC, declared the outbreak an emergency, prompting the activation of the EOC.
In Osun State, Health Commissioner Mr. Jola Akinola said that out of 14 suspected cases, 13 were negative, with one result pending. He assured that the state remains vigilant to prevent an outbreak.
Beyond Boders further learned that state officials, including Permanent Secretary Mr. Richard Afolayan and Director of Environmental Health Mr. Wale Akala, held a sensitization rally at Sabo Market, Ile-Ife, to educate the public about cholera prevention.
Dr. Ipalibo Banigo, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Health, emphasized that fighting cholera is everyone’s responsibility. She advised ensuring safe drinking water, proper sanitation, and clean food to prevent the spread of the disease.
The Health Emergency Initiative (HEI) also called for public education and emergency response training. HEI’s CEO, Paschal Achunine, stressed the importance of addressing the outbreak and supporting those in need, especially in underserved areas.
During a training event in Lagos, Deputy Director of Nursing Sola Aketi praised HEI’s efforts to reduce avoidable deaths and improve healthcare access.
Consultant family physician, Dr. Odunaye-Badmus Sakeenah, highlighted the importance of rehydration in treating cholera, recommending Oral Rehydration Solution or a homemade salt-sugar solution to save lives.
