NIMR lists measures to avert fresh cholera outbreak

Researchers from the Nigerian Institute of Medical Research in Yaba, Lagos, have emphasized the importance of maintaining cleanliness in the environment and eliminating open defecation to prevent a new cholera outbreak in Nigeria during the upcoming rainy season.

They also called on Nigerians to adopt high standards of personal and household hygiene, ensure that food is prepared and stored in a clean and safe manner, and to wash their hands frequently with soap and running water.

Additionally, the researchers indicated that a sustainable solution for cholera prevention hinges on access to safe drinking water, proper sanitation practices (particularly the cessation of open defecation), and adherence to hygiene protocols.

During the March edition of the NIMR monthly media chat, the researchers urged the government to prioritize initiatives that guarantee access to safe water, basic sanitation, and effective hygiene practices within communities.

The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) describes cholera as a waterborne illness marked by the sudden onset of severe watery diarrhea, which can lead to rapid dehydration and potentially death if not treated promptly.

Symptoms of cholera include nausea, vomiting, and weakness. The NCDC notes that the disease is highly treatable if identified early.

According to the health agency, most individuals infected with cholera can be effectively treated through the timely administration of oral rehydration solutions (ORS) to replenish lost fluids and electrolytes.

In its epidemiological report from October of the previous year, the NCDC highlighted a significant surge in cholera cases in Nigeria, with suspected incidents increasing by a staggering 220 percent in 2024.

In her presentation, Prof. Stella Smith, the Director of Research at NIMR, provided insights into the correlation between inadequate sanitation, contaminated food, limited access to water supply, and the occurrence of cholera outbreaks.

The director emphasized that cholera is a disease transmitted through contaminated water, making areas with insufficient sanitation and unreliable access to clean water particularly vulnerable to outbreaks.

Smith cautioned that hazardous practices, such as improper waste disposal and open defecation, compromise the safety of water intended for drinking and personal use.

She urged Nigerians who continue to practice open defecation and indiscriminate waste disposal to recognize that these behaviors could facilitate the spread of waterborne diseases like cholera, particularly during the rainy season.

The researcher identified Kano, Bauchi, Kaduna, Abia, Ebonyi, Rivers, and Lagos as regions particularly affected by cholera.

The researcher also pointed out that without adequate water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) measures, Nigeria will remain susceptible to cholera outbreaks, along with the resulting suffering and fatalities.

A professor from the Department of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology at NIMR stated that implementing the WASH strategy would guarantee the availability and accessibility of safe, clean water.

She indicated that each person should have access to a minimum of 20 liters of water per day.

Smith remarked, “Cholera is primarily caused by contaminated food or water, especially in regions with inadequate sanitation and hygiene, highlighting the necessity for access to clean water.”

“Access to safe drinking water is crucial for cholera prevention. Simple practices such as washing hands with soap and water, refraining from cooking with unwashed hands, and ensuring proper waste disposal can greatly diminish the risk of infection.”

In addition to cholera, Smith addressed the importance of media involvement in raising awareness about Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori), a pathogen responsible for peptic ulcers, gastric cancer, and other stomach infections.

The scientist observed that the prevalence of H. pylori is notably high in Nigeria, noting a significant lack of awareness and frequent misdiagnosis of this health issue.

“In Nigeria, the incidence of H. pylori infection is higher in the northern regions compared to other areas of the country,” she stated.

The director emphasized that given the significant prevalence of Helicobacter pylori infection in Africa and its related health complications, timely and precise diagnosis is essential for effective management, treatment, and eradication of the disease.

She outlined the signs and symptoms associated with Helicobacter pylori infection, which include abdominal pain, nausea, decreased appetite, frequent belching, bloating, and unintended weight loss.

Smith pointed out that misdiagnosis, coupled with a lack of awareness, poses a significant challenge to the treatment and management of Helicobacter pylori in Africa, particularly in Nigeria.

She noted that the demand for accurate diagnosis and treatment led to the establishment of the African Helicobacter & Microbiota Study Group.

According to her, the treatment regimen for H. pylori involves a recommended combination of antisecretory medications and antibiotics.

“Regrettably, the misuse and overuse of antibiotics have resulted in several bacterial pathogens, including H. pylori, developing resistance to these drugs. This resistance presents a substantial obstacle to the effective treatment and eradication of H. pylori infection,” she stated.

She urged for increased research funding and grants to enhance awareness of the condition, while also encouraging individuals with the infection to seek appropriate medical assessment and treatment, as well as to maintain good hygiene practices.

Prof. John Obafunwa, the Director-General of NIMR, offered additional insights into H. pylori and its association with gastric cancer.

The pathologist clarified that H. pylori is not the sole contributor to gastric cancer.

He explained that various other factors, including obesity, alcohol consumption, and smoking, can also lead to this type of cancer.

Dr. Toyosi Raheem, another researcher at the institute, highlighted the importance of raising awareness to eliminate open defecation in the country and to prevent cholera outbreaks.

Raheem connected some cholera outbreaks in the nation to the contamination of water sources resulting from open defecation.

The researcher emphasized the importance of ongoing collaboration with various stakeholders, including researchers, food vendors, health professionals, and community members, as a means to enhance and advocate for proper hygiene practices within communities.

"When the government implements policies aimed at eliminating open defecation, many individuals view certain measures as overly severe.

"For instance, if you travel by train from Lagos to Ibadan, you will notice human waste along the railway. When it rains, this waste is washed into the river, ultimately leading to its consumption," he remarked.