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Cholera in Nigeria

15 Jan 2015

The media has reported on an outbreak of cholera in Andoni Local Government Area, Rivers State on the west coast of the country. The outbreak began on 5 January 2015, health officials report around 171 suspected cases and 20 cholera related deaths.

The state emergency response team and the social mobilization team have been mobilised to assess and manage the situation. Two treatment centres have been established at Ebukuma and Okoli'ile and those affected are advised to make use of the facilities.

Bore holes are to be sunk in the area as part of measures to tackle the spread by providing potable water.

Advice for Travellers

Travellers to outbreak areas who will be mixing closely with the local population and cannot ensure safe drinking water can be immunised against cholera. A high standard of food, water and personal hygiene should also be maintained.