The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention has issued a warning to the public to avoid consuming beverages and drinks prepared with contaminated water, as it may lead to the spread of cholera. Cholera is a highly infectious disease caused by the ingestion of Vibrio cholerae bacteria, which can be found in contaminated water and food.

The symptoms of cholera include sudden onset of acute diarrhea, vomiting, nausea, and fever. If left untreated, severe cases of cholera can lead to death by dehydration within hours.

However, approximately 80% of infected individuals may exhibit mild symptoms or no symptoms at all. Cholera is a recurring disease in Nigeria, typically occurring during the rainy season in areas with poor sanitation.

The current outbreak has affected 30 states, with 10 states accounting for 90% of the cases. The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention has reported cholera cases in 96 local government areas across the country.

Experts note that cholera thrives in areas with high population density, inadequate water supply, and poor personal and environmental hygiene.

To combat the spread of cholera, the NCDC is conducting risk assessments and providing support to states to respond to the outbreak.

The NCDC on its X handle, NCDCgov, on Tuesday, warned, “Beverages, ice and drinks prepared with unclean or contaminated water can spread #cholera.

“Protect yourself and your loved ones; do not buy or consume foods or drinks prepared with water from unreliable sources.”

To prevent the spread of cholera, the agency recommends that Nigerians take steps to ensure the safety of their water, such as using water from trusted sources like boreholes, water treatment plants, or piped water, and properly storing water in clean containers.

It pinpointed, “Use water from reliable sources, boil water before drinking, store water in properly covered containers, ensure bottled water and pure water sachet is properly sealed before you drink it.”

On its website, the agency highlighted the disease is easily treatable if detected early.

“Most infected people can be treated successfully through prompt administration of Oral Rehydration Solution, to replace lost fluids and electrolytes, and appropriate antibiotics.

“The ORS solution is a powder that can be reconstituted in boiled or bottled water. Cholera can be deadly when infected people do not access care immediately.

“Cholera can be prevented through ensuring access to safe, potable drinking water; proper sanitation and waste disposal; and appropriate hygiene including handwashing. Raw fruits and vegetables, food from street vendors, and raw or undercooked seafood should be avoided,” it noted.

The NCDC is urging state governments to take priority action to implement solutions that guarantee access to and utilization of safe water, fundamental sanitation, and proper hygiene practices in community settings.