By Abubakar Yunusa
The federal government has initiated discussions with the Global Alliance for Vaccines and Immunisation (Gavi) to secure additional cholera vaccines.
Cholera is a food and water-borne disease caused by the ingestion of Vibrio cholerae in contaminated water and food.
Lagos is currently tackling an outbreak of cholera, with other states recording cases as well.
Speaking with NAN, Jide Idris, director-general of the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC), said recognising the urgent need for vaccines, Ali Pate, coordinating minister of health and social welfare, has entered into discussions with Gavi.
“Gavi, a global health partnership, plays a pivotal role in improving access to vaccines in low-income countries,” he said.
“Through these negotiations, Nigeria aims to secure an emergency supply of cholera vaccines to curb the outbreak.
“At present, cholera vaccines are not stocked in our public facilities, though they are available in limited quantities in the private sector.
“But vaccines alone are not the only preventative measures we have at the moment; we must also ensure environmental cleanliness and proper hand hygiene.”
He said globally, the demand for cholera vaccines has surged, leading to severe shortage.
The director-general said the limited supply has strained efforts to control outbreaks in endemic regions, including in Nigeria.
“The outbreak has significantly impacted several states, leading to numerous deaths and overwhelming healthcare facilities,” he said.
“Poor sanitation, inadequate clean water supply, and limited healthcare infrastructure have exacerbated spread of the disease.”
He said in response to ongoing outbreak, the NCDC has intensified its public health campaigns, and is emphasising hygiene practices and the importance of clean water.
“However, these measures alone are insufficient without adequate vaccination coverage. The shortage of vaccines has hampered mass immunisation campaigns, crucial for preventing spread of cholera,” he said.
“The situation in Nigeria underscores broader issues of global health equity and preparedness. It highlights the necessity for increased investment in vaccine production and distribution infrastructure.”