5 Alarming Facts About the Cholera Outbreak in Nigeria

Throughout history, there have been several incidences of cholera outbreaks in African countries, especially during the rainy season followed by periods of remission. However, this silent menace has been causing unending havoc. This is experienced mostly in areas with unbreakable romance with open defecation and uncontrolled waste disposal. Here are 5 alarming facts about cholera outbreaks you should know to avoid getting infected;

1. Cholera is an acute diarrhea-causing infection that can kill within hours if left uncontrolled:

   Severe cases of cholera are characterized by profuse diarrhea, vomiting, rapid dehydration, muscle cramps, and shock. People who produce less stomach acid, such as young children, older people, and those taking drugs that reduce stomach acid, are most susceptible to the infection.

    

2. Cholera is more prevalent in some regions of Nigeria than others:

   The present epidemic mostly occurs in the North-West and North-East regions. In these areas, over half of the population belongs to the poorest and has the least access to potable water supply and sanitation services.

    

3. More than half of the people infected with cholera do not develop any symptoms:

   However, the bacteria is present in their feces for 7–14 days after infection. The organism is then shed back into the environment, potentially infecting other people via the consumption of contaminated food or water, and the cycle continues.

    

4. The major risk factor is unsanitary practices:

   When people defecate in bushes, farms, gutters, and other open areas or use inadequate toilets, the risk of cholera transmission increases significantly in that area.
   

5. Cholera is a potentially fatal condition that can cause kidney failure:  

   When the kidneys lose their filtering ability, excess amounts of fluids, some electrolytes and wastes build up in the body. This is a potentially life-threatening condition. In people with cholera, kidney failure often accompanies septic shock.

If you or your loved one suddenly experience watery diarrhea, medical intervention is advised immediately instead of self-medication. To avoid the ravaging effect of cholera, proper hygiene practices should be implemented. This disease can cause devastating effects to both adults and children and internal organ damage. 

Cholera has persisted in Africa for a variety of reasons. This could be because of the worsening sanitation, unreliable water supplies, and the upsurge in urban migration. This migrations is usually to an already congested setting where there are little or no hygiene services available. Therefore, taking safety precautions and observing optimal handwashing and sanitation practices will go a long way in curbing this insidiously underestimated disease.