Cholera in Nigeria update

The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control continues to report transmission of cholera in the country, with 1,182 suspected cases recorded by 13 Nigerian states in the week ending 12 September 2021. Since the beginning of 2021, 72,910 suspected cholera cases, including 2,404 deaths, have been reported from 27 states and the Federal Capital Territory.

Travellers to the region are advised to only consume safe food and water. Food and drink to be wary of include untreated water, ice, shellfish, salads, unwashed fruit and vegetables. Travellers are also advised that good personal hygiene is essential, particularly frequent hand washing.

A vaccine is available to protect against cholera, but as the risk to most travellers is very low, it is only recommended for: 

• volunteers, aid workers and medical personnel in disaster relief situations where cholera outbreaks are likely  
• those travelling to work in slums or refugee camps, areas affected by natural disasters, or countries experiencing cholera outbreaks and where care with food and water is difficult or not possible

Further information relating to cholera can be found on the TRAVAX (for health professionals) and fitfortravel (for the general public) websites.

Source: TRAVAX, 24 September 2021