AN ASSESSMENT OF CHOLERA AND ITS IMPACT ON PUPIL’S ACADEMIC PERFORMANCE IN LAGOS STATE

CHAPTER ONE

INTRODUCTION

1.1 Background of the study

Cholera is a rapid-onset gastrointestinal illness caused by the bacterium Vibrio cholerae. It is an infection of the small intestine that occurs when contaminated food or water is consumed. Cholera is a significant global public health threat, according to the World Health Organisation (WHO, 2015). It is also considered a prominent signal of insufficient social development, including human biological development (WHO, 2015). The disease was once a prevalent global health issue, but industrialised nations have successfully surmounted this difficulty over time, resulting in its current predominance in developing countries, particularly those in tropical and subtropical regions. The Chiyangwa study (2017) found that the disease is prevalent in Africa, certain regions of Asia, the Middle East, and South and Central America.

Outbreaks in locations where a disease is regularly seen typically happen when conflict or civil turmoil interrupts the maintenance of public cleanliness. Natural calamities such as earthquakes, tsunamis, volcanic eruptions, landslides, and floods alter the natural balance of nature, leading to outbreaks (Qadri, 2016). Consequently, these events give rise to several health issues since parasites and germs can contaminate food and water sources when vital infrastructure, such as water sewage systems, are demolished. Developing nations are disproportionately impacted due to insufficient resources, inadequate infrastructure, and limited preventive measures (Sur, 2017). Outbreaks can happen at any time of the year and can impact people of all age groups in recently impacted regions. The organism typically inhabits marine environments along the coastline. Individuals contract this sickness from the ingestion of water, seafood, or other food items that have been contaminated with the bacterium vibrocholerea. After becoming infected, they eliminate the bacteria in their faeces. Consequently, the transmission of the virus can occur swiftly, especially in regions where there is no proper treatment of human waste (WASH, 2014).

The key to limiting cholera outbreaks, controlling cholera in places where it is common, and reducing deaths is to adopt a multidisciplinary approach that focuses on prevention, readiness, and response. This approach should be supported by an efficient surveillance system. (WHO, 2016) Water and sewage treatment systems implemented over a century ago played a significant role in the eradication of cholera in most developed nations. The prevention of cholera is a pressing and significant challenge that government measures in African cities must address. Therefore, if the cholera outbreak is not adequately prevented, it will lead to a gradual deterioration of both people's health and the economy (WHO, 2018).

In light of the recent cholera outbreak in Lagos state, which has resulted in the deaths of 15 individuals as of June 2024, the chief of the United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF), Lafoucrier (2024), asserts that one significant repercussion of cholera outbreaks is the disruption of education. This is due to the illness itself and the obligation to care for sick family members, which leads to the closure of schools and decreased attendance. Consequently, this hampers children's ability to learn and develop, ultimately impacting their academic performance. Furthermore, the author suggested that children may experience post-recovery complications such as malnutrition, impaired growth, and compromised immune systems, which make them more vulnerable to subsequent illnesses. 

Subsequently Cholera poses the greatest risk to the smallest children, with the highest occurrence occurring during the first two years of life. However, the risk decreases as the kid gets older. In Nigeria, the illness is prevalent and the occurrence of epidemics is not uncommon. It is crucial to prevent schools from reopening during a pandemic since this will significantly impact academic achievement. Lafoucrier (2024) expressed concern about the significant impact of recurring Cholera outbreaks on children and the general community. He emphasised that these vulnerable groups are at a high risk of experiencing severe dehydration and increased mortality rates, especially children under the age of five. Hence, the necessity for doing this investigation.

1.2 Statement of the Problem

It is evident that a delayed school opening has an impact on the school calendar and can result in poor academic achievement if appropriate actions are not implemented. Consequently, school administrators must engage in thorough deliberation to develop effective solutions and strategies to accommodate all categories of students (Olaiya, 2024). This implies further exertion from educators, students, and guardians. The additional exertion will necessitate increased expenditure in terms of additional books, additional snacks, additional pocket money, and so forth. Many parents may not be able to afford excessive spending due to the current inflation and recession in Nigeria. This will impede the child's learning.

Certain schools have a comparatively lower income than others. This is mostly attributed to a variety of factors, predominantly linked to the school's catchment region or geographical location (Monday, 2019). Additionally, the challenge of organising a significant fundraiser may be attributed to the socio-economic circumstances within the school's surrounding environment. The school administration's innovative initiatives to elevate the school may be hindered by the inherent socio-economic conditions in the surrounding area. Socioeconomic concerns can negatively impact the health infrastructure and personnel in schools (Cyril et al., 2021), as limited funds may prevent the school from acquiring the necessary resources to combat cholera pandemic. Consequently, the disruption of learning adversely impacts students' academic achievement. This study focuses on evaluating the occurrence of cholera and its influence on the academic performance of students.

1.3 Objectives of the study

The primary objective of this study is to critically assess the impact of cholera on pupil’s academic performance in Lagos state. Specific objectives of this study are to:

To determine the prevalence level of cholera in among pupils in Lagos state 

To determine the risk factors contributing to the outbreak of cholera in Lagos state

To identify the effect of cholera on pupil’s academic performance in Lagos state

To explore strategies to prevent cholera in schools in Lagos state

1.4 Research Questions

The following research questions which are in line with the objectives of this study will be answered in this study:

What is the level of prevalence of cholera among pupils in Lagos state?

What are the risk factors contributing to the outbreak of cholera in Lagos state?

What are the effect of cholera on pupil’s academic performance in Lagos state?

What are the strategies to prevent cholera in schools in Lagos state?

1.5 Research Hypothesis

Ho: There are no significant effects of cholera on pupil’s academic performance in Lagos state.

Ha: There are significant effects of cholera on pupil’s academic performance in Lagos state.

1.5 Significance of the study

This research addresses a critical public health issue and its ramifications on education, providing insights that are crucial for health professionals, educators, policymakers and the community at large. 

This study will also be of great importance to the health professionals as it seeks to provide a comprehensive understanding of how cholera affects school-aged children in Lagos State. The study also highlights the importance of addressing this public health challenge. 

The study is also of high significance to educators as it will highlight the need for improved water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) facilities in schools, leading to a healthier learning environment. It will also help educators in identifying gaps in current health practices recommend better hygiene and sanitation practices to prevent future outbreaks.

Furthermore, the study will provide the government and policy makers evidence-based insights for developing targeted interventions aimed at improving both health and education sectors. The study will also guide the allocation of resources to areas most affected by cholera, ensuring that interventions are both efficient and effective.

Finally, this study will also serve as a reference material to students and researchers for further studies and future research.

1.6 Scope of the study

Broadly, this study focuses to critically assess the impact of cholera on pupil’s academic performance in Lagos state. Specifically, this study seeks to determine the prevalence level of cholera in among pupils in Nigeria and the risk factors contributing to the outbreak of cholera in Nigeria.

Additionally, this study will also focus on identify the effect of cholera on pupil’s academic performance in Nigeria and finally it will seek to explore strategies to prevent cholera in schools in Nigeria.

This study will be carried out in Alimosho Local Government Area, Lagos state.

1.7 Limitations of the study

Like in every human endeavour, the researchers encountered slight constraints while carrying out the study. The significant constraint was the scanty literature on the subject owing that there are no much data on the topic assessment the impact of cholera on pupil’s academic performance in Lagos state. Thus, much time and organization was required in sourcing for the relevant materials, literature, or information and in the process of data collection. Also the study is limited in sample size and geography covering only Lagos state. Therefore, findings of this study cannot be used for generalization thus creating a gap for further studies. 

Also encountered was time constraint as the researcher had to carry out this research in addition to attending lectures and other educational activities required of him.

1.9 Definition of terms

Cholera: Cholera is an infectious disease that causes severe watery diarrhea, which can lead to dehydration and even death if untreated. It is caused by eating food or drinking water contaminated with a bacterium called Vibrio cholerae.

Diarrhoea: This is a condition in which feces are discharged from the bowels frequently and in a liquid form. a range of symptoms including diarrhea and vomiting.

Communicable disease: Communicable diseases are illnesses caused by viruses or bacteria that people spread to one another through contact with contaminated surfaces, bodily fluids, blood products, insect bites, or through the air. There are many examples of communicable diseases.

Academic performance: Academic achievement or academic performance is the extent to which a student, teacher or institution has attained their short or long-term educational goals.