Improving Health Surveillance in Climate Change

The 2022 flooding has led to outbreaks of cholera in the camps and communities hosting flood-displaced persons. As of November, 34 of 36 states are flooded, and the threat of more outbreaks of water- or vector-borne diseases persists. The floods have also triggered population movements from outbreak areas to unaffected places. In Nigeria, up to 80% of displaced persons are absorbed by communities; the risk of outbreaks along migratory routes and in destination communities or camps is increased with the influx of high numbers of individuals. Disease detection and communication is disrupted, and impedes early awareness, prompt notification and active case searching/contact tracing. Current surveillance or humanitarian efforts do not give population distribution by location. Being able to track displacement patterns of populations affected by floods, will enhance early detection of disease spread and possible routes, thus boosting effective health preparedness and response plans.