The United Nations Children’s Fund has highlighted the increased risk faced by children under five during cholera outbreaks, with severe dehydration and higher mortality rates being major concerns.
In a statement released by Celine Lafoucrier, Chief of UNICEF Lagos Field Office, it was emphasized that addressing the challenges of cholera outbreaks requires state policies to prioritize the provision of high-quality water and sanitation facilities, along with robust healthcare systems capable of effectively responding to outbreaks.
Lafoucrier stressed the importance of educational campaigns led by the government to raise awareness about cholera prevention, especially to safeguard children and the general population.
According to her, children, particularly those under five, are significantly impacted by recurrent cholera outbreaks, facing health risks like severe dehydration and higher mortality rates.
Cholera outbreaks also lead to educational disruptions, as illness and caregiving responsibilities result in school closures and decreased attendance, affecting children’s learning and growth.
Lafoucrier recommended the implementation of sustainable WASH (Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene) infrastructure, strengthened healthcare systems capable of anticipating epidemics, and effective community engagement strategies to break the transmission cycle.
She emphasized the importance of proper sanitation and hygiene practices in preventing cholera, such as adequate faeces disposal, ending open defecation, and ensuring access to clean water. Regular handwashing with soap and water is crucial.
Furthermore, she advised against consuming raw or undercooked food and stressed the need for safe drinking water, improved sanitation, and better water management to reduce the global disease burden.
Lafoucrier highlighted that disease outbreaks, including cholera, hinder Nigeria’s progress in achieving health-related Sustainable Development Goals by straining the healthcare system and diverting resources from essential services like immunizations and maternal care.
She noted the critical role of water and sanitation infrastructure in preventing disease outbreaks like cholera, which claims approximately 100,000 lives annually.