Cholera risk in Ibadan

Cholera Prevention Guide for Ibadan Residents

Cholera is a serious diarrheal disease caused by the bacterium Vibrio cholerae. It spreads through contaminated water and food, and can kill within hours if untreated. Ibadan's risk score of 65 out of 100 reflects ongoing challenges that every resident should understand.

Local risk factors in Ibadan include frequent flooding during rainy seasons that contaminates open water sources, reliance on wells and boreholes without consistent treatment, informal settlements with limited sanitation, street food vendors using unsafe water, and overcrowded areas where open defecation still occurs near waterways.

Here are five practical steps to protect yourself and your family.

First, treat all drinking water. Boil water for at least one full minute or use chlorine tablets before drinking. Store water in clean covered containers and do not dip hands or cups directly into storage vessels.

Second, always wash hands with soap and clean water before eating, after using the toilet, and after handling waste. If soap is unavailable, use ash as a temporary alternative.

Third, cook food thoroughly and eat while still hot. Avoid raw vegetables washed with untreated water and be cautious with street food, especially during flooding season.

Fourth, dispose of human waste properly. Do not defecate near rivers, streams, or open drains. Use designated latrines and keep them clean.

Fifth, during flooding, avoid wading through floodwater and do not allow children to play in standing water. Clean and disinfect your home after floodwater recedes using bleach solution.

If you experience sudden watery diarrhea and vomiting, begin oral rehydration immediately using clean water, salt, and sugar, then seek medical care at the nearest health facility without delay. Early treatment saves lives.