In an interview with Lara Adejoro, Professor Kayode Osagbemi, a Public Health expert and Consultant at the University of Ilorin Teaching Hospital, highlighted the critical factors contributing to cholera outbreaks in Nigeria. He described cholera as a gastrointestinal infection caused by Vibrio cholerae bacteria, primarily transmitted through contaminated food and water. Prof. Osagbemi noted that while major outbreaks have been sporadic in Nigeria over the past decade, the disease thrives in densely populated areas with poor sanitation and inadequate water supply.
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Socio-economic factors, such as poverty and overcrowding, were identified by Prof. Osagbemi as exacerbating transmission risks. He stressed the importance of community-wide hygiene practices, access to clean water, and improved environmental sanitation as essential measures to prevent cholera outbreaks. Emphasizing a holistic approach, he cautioned against over-reliance on vaccines due to their cost and short-term immunity benefits.
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The professor underscored the economic consequences of cholera outbreaks, including societal disruption and healthcare system strain, impacting both community well-being and economic activities. He concluded by advocating for sustained efforts in promoting public health awareness and infrastructure improvements to mitigate the risk and impact of cholera outbreaks in Nigeria.
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Chris Oyeoku Okafor 
