Abstract

Diarrheal diseases are a major public health concern in Nigerian refugee camps, where displaced populations face 
overcrowding, poor sanitation, limited water supply, and malnutrition, creating conditions conducive to recurrent 
outbreaks. This review examines the multifactorial causes of diarrheal outbreaks in these settings, emphasizing 
environmental, infrastructural, and socio-economic determinants. Key interventions are analyzed, including 
improvements in water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH), vaccination campaigns against cholera and rotavirus, 
nutritional support, health education, and emergency response mechanisms. Despite ongoing efforts, challenges such 
as insecurity, funding constraints, weak healthcare systems, and cultural barriers hinder sustainable solutions. The 
review highlights the importance of strengthening disease surveillance, integrating WASH initiatives with long
term infrastructure development, enhancing healthcare capacity, and promoting community engagement. Multi
sectoral collaboration among governments, non-governmental organizations, and international partners is essential 
for coordinated outbreak management. By addressing these factors, sustainable strategies can be implemented to 
reduce morbidity and mortality, improve health outcomes, and build resilience among displaced populations in 
Nigerian refugee and internally displaced persons (IDP) camps. 
Keywords: Diarrheal disease, Refugee camps, Nigeria, WASH, Cholera, Rotavirus, Public health interventions.