Cholera Bacteria Transmitted Through Feces: Expert Cautions Public

Dr. Gabriel Adakole, a public health expert based in Abuja, has issued a public warning about the transmission of cholera, a severe diarrheal illness caused by the bacterium Vibrio cholerae. He emphasized that the disease is primarily spread through the ingestion of food or water contaminated with the feces of an infected person.

Key Points of Concern:

Transmission Mechanism: Dr. Adakole explained that cholera bacteria can survive in the environment for extended periods, making transmission more likely in areas with inadequate sanitation and hygiene. When contaminated water or food is consumed, the bacteria colonize the intestines, leading to the rapid onset of symptoms.
Impact on Underdeveloped Regions: Cholera is more prevalent in underdeveloped regions with insufficient infrastructure for clean water and sewage disposal. Natural disasters, conflicts, and overcrowded living conditions can exacerbate the situation, leading to outbreaks that can affect thousands of people.
Prevention Measures: Preventing cholera requires a multifaceted approach:
- Ensuring access to clean drinking water and adequate sanitation facilities is vital. This involves building and maintaining infrastructure for safe water supply and proper sewage disposal.
- Educating communities about the importance of handwashing with soap and safe food handling practices can significantly reduce the risk of transmission.
- Cholera vaccines can provide temporary protection, especially useful during outbreaks or for people traveling to high-risk areas.
- Early diagnosis and treatment with oral rehydration salts (ORS) and, in severe cases, intravenous fluids and antibiotics can save lives and limit the spread of the disease.

Call to Action: Dr. Adakole urged the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) and relevant agencies, including non-governmental organizations (NGOs), to assist affected states in combating cholera. These efforts should include providing emergency relief during outbreaks, supporting infrastructure projects, and conducting vaccination campaigns.

Persistent Challenges: He highlighted that the persistent challenges of poverty, political instability, and climate change continue to hamper progress in eradicating cholera. Addressing these fundamental issues is crucial to preventing the spread of cholera and improving public health outcomes globally.

Recent Outbreak in Lagos: The Lagos State government recently confirmed a cholera outbreak, with the highly aggressive strain identified. The epicenter is Lagos Island, with 106 cases, followed by other Local Government Areas. Out of 350 suspected cases, 17 are confirmed, and 15 deaths have occurred. The state, supported by the NCDC, World Health Organization (WHO), UNICEF, and local NGOs, is enhancing public health campaigns, especially with the Sallah celebrations. Suspected cases receive free treatment, and efforts are focused on improving public awareness and preventive measures.

In 2022, there were 473,000 cholera cases reported globally, with numbers rising in 2023. Africa has the highest numbers, followed by other WHO regions.

Conclusion: Cholera remains a significant threat in many parts of the world, including Nigeria. Addressing the root causes, such as lack of clean water and inadequate sanitation, is essential to curbing the spread of the disease and improving public health outcomes.