The Borno State Ministry of Health has announced a cholera outbreak following recent flooding that affected various areas in the state.
Health Commissioner Prof. Baba Gana confirmed the outbreak during a briefing at the Eye Center in Maiduguri, revealing that out of 200 samples tested, 17 came back positive for cholera.
Prof. Gana attributed the outbreak to the floods, which have led to water contamination in several local government areas, including Jere, Mafa, Konduga, Dikwa, and Maiduguri Metropolitan Council.
“We have seen increasing cases of cholera, especially in LGAs affected by the floods,” he said. He also noted that neighboring states, such as Adamawa and Yobe, are also battling the disease.
As of now, no deaths have been reported, but the state has recorded 451 suspected cholera cases. Prof. Gana reassured residents that the state government is responding promptly to contain the outbreak.
He shared that organizations like the World Health Organization and Médecins Sans Frontières are actively providing support.
To combat the spread of cholera, the state has approved 400,000 vaccines for immediate distribution. “Our goal is to control this outbreak and prevent further infections,” Prof. Gana said, urging residents to cooperate with health officials during the vaccination campaign.
Health authorities are urging the public to maintain hygiene and follow guidelines to prevent further spread of cholera.
