The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) has raised concerns over the deteriorating water safety in the country, leading to a rise in water-borne diseases like cholera. Dr. Jide Idris, the Director-General, highlighted the dangers of improper waste disposal and open defecation practices on water sources during an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN).
With an outbreak of cholera spreading across more than 30 states, the NCDC reported 1,528 suspected cases, 65 confirmed cases, and 53 deaths as of June 24, 2024. The most affected states include Bayelsa, Zamfara, Abia, Cross River, Bauchi, Delta, Katsina, Imo, Nasarawa, and Lagos.
Idris emphasized the importance of safe sanitation practices and urged state governments to enforce stricter waste management regulations. The NCDC has activated its emergency operation centre and called for collective efforts to protect water sources and prevent the spread of diseases.
President Bola Tinubu has directed the establishment of a committee to oversee the cholera emergency operation, signaling a coordinated response to the crisis. Urgent action is needed to improve sanitation practices and ensure access to clean water to combat the outbreak effectively.
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