Cholera: Children worst hit as 5,260 cases, 67 deaths recorded

Nigeria is grappling with a worsening cholera outbreak, which has affected 5,260 people and claimed 67 lives across 128 local government areas in 33 states and the Federal Capital Territory. Data from the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) reveals that children under the age of five remain the most vulnerable demographic, followed closely by children aged five to 14.

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suspected cholera cases have risen by 73 per cent compared to the same period in 2025, highlighting a significant escalation of the outbreak despite improvements in treatment outcomes.

The latest NCDC figures, covering up to May 31, 2026, show a significant escalation, with suspected cholera cases increasing by 73% compared to the same period in 2025. Despite this surge in infections, cumulative deaths have fallen by 37% year-on-year, indicating improvements in national case management strategies. The current national case fatality rate stands at 1.3%.

Public health experts attribute the disproportionate impact on young children to factors such as poor access to safe drinking water, inadequate sanitation systems, and their increased susceptibility to severe dehydration caused by cholera. The outbreak affects males and females almost equally, with 51% of cases reported among males and 49% among females.

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Despite the rise in cases, cumulative deaths have fallen by 37 per cent compared to 2025, reflecting stronger case management nationally.

Health authorities are raising concerns as Nigeria enters its peak rainy season, a period typically associated with increased flooding and contamination of water sources, which can exacerbate cholera transmission. The NCDC notes that cases have been reported nationwide, but the outbreak is overwhelmingly concentrated in Borno State.

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children younger than five years remain the most affected age group nationwide, followed by children aged between five and 14 years.

Analysis of the NCDC data reveals that Borno State alone accounts for 4,510 of Nigeria's 5,260 suspected cases, representing a staggering 86% of the national caseload. The severity of the outbreak is particularly evident in Maiduguri, the state capital, where the Maiduguri Local Government Area has recorded 2,706 cases. This single city is responsible for more than half of all cholera infections reported in Nigeria this year, highlighting a critical public health challenge.

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Borno State accounts for 4,510 of Nigeria’s 5,260 suspected cases, 86 per cent of the entire national caseload.