An analysis of the spatial and temporal variability of Cholera prevalence in Lagos State, Nigeria

Oyekanmi Babatimehin, Obafemi Awolowo University
Angela Ordia, Obafemi Awolowo University
Joy Nwaezeigwe, Obafemi Awolowo University

The paper analysed the spatio-temporal patterns of cholera occurrence in Lagos State, Nigeria between 2001 and 2011. This is necessitated by the paucity of modern mapping attempts of the disease. Data used included relevant geo-spatial data, reported cases of cholera (2001-2011), population figures, topographical sheets (1:50,000), and relevant base maps of the state. The trend analysis showed that the highest cases of cholera were reported in 2004, 2005, and 2011 with 176, 78, and 41 cases respectively. The lowest occurrences were reported in 2010, 2002 and 2009 with 4, 5, and 7 cases respectively. The spatial analysis shows that highest occurrences were recorded in Ikorodu (112); Apapa (27); and Ojo (25) LGAs; while the lowest cases were reported in Surulere (2) and Alimosho LGAs (1). The disease occurrence followed a combination of contagious, relocation and hierarchical diffusion processes. The study concluded that cholera occurrence in Lagos exhibited spatio-temporal dynamics.