A cholera outbreak in Niger State has claimed at least 12 lives and left more than 230 others hospitalised across several local government areas, according to health officials.
The outbreak, which was first detected on Sunday in Shiroro Local Government Area, has rapidly spread to at least six LGAs, including Minna, Bosso, Shiroro, Magama, Bisa and Munya as of Wednesday.
Healthcare officials confirmed that 239 individuals have been affected and are currently receiving treatment at various primary healthcare centres throughout the impacted regions.
Government Response Measures
In response to the escalating health crisis, the Niger State government has opened an isolation centre at the old wing of the Late Sen. Idris Kuta Primary Healthcare Centre in Minna to manage the growing number of cases.
Dr. Ibrahim Dangana, Commissioner for Primary Healthcare, confirmed that a multi-sectoral response team has been deployed to curb the spread of the disease.
"We have established treatment and isolation centres in the affected LGAs to contain the outbreak," Dangana stated. "Aggressive sensitisation campaigns are ongoing, targeting religious organisations like CAN and Islamic groups, as well as the eight emirates in the state."
The commissioner also commended Governor Mohammed Bago for his swift intervention and expressed appreciation for the support provided by donor agencies in addressing the outbreak.
Worst-Affected Areas
Dr. Ibrahim Idris, Director of Public Health at the Ministry of Tertiary Healthcare, identified Chanchaga, Minna, Bosso, and Shiroro as the worst-hit areas in the state.
Health experts advise residents to maintain proper hygiene practices, including regular handwashing with soap and clean water, proper food preparation, and drinking only safe water to prevent further spread of the disease.
Cholera is an acute diarrheal infection caused by ingestion of food or water contaminated with the bacterium Vibrio cholerae. The disease can spread rapidly in areas with inadequate treatment of sewage and drinking water.
Stay updated on this developing health situation by following BenriNews on our social media platforms: Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, WhatsApp, and Telegram.
