A cholera outbreak in Sokoto State has claimed the lives of 25 people across three Local Government Areas, with 15 others currently hospitalized.
The outbreak, which has affected a total of 1,160 people, was confirmed by the state Commissioner of Health, Asabe Balarabe, during a press briefing on Monday.
Dr. Balarabe revealed that the active cases are being treated in Sokoto North, Silame, and Kware LGAs after laboratory tests confirmed the diagnosis.
“Out of 1,160 people that have been affected by the outbreak, 25 of the victims have already succumbed to the disease,” the commissioner said.
In response to the outbreak, the state government has directed the immediate purchase and free distribution of drugs to 18 local government areas to curb the spread of the disease. Rescue teams are also working in collaboration with the state government to manage and contain the situation.
“The stated rescue teams are collaborating with the state government to manage and forestall further spread of the dreaded disease,” Balarabe added.
The hardest-hit communities, including Bazza and Gidadawa in Sokoto Metropolis, have reported escalating cases of cholera and diarrhea. Some victims are receiving treatment at primary health centers in Bazza and Kofar Rini clinics, both located in Waziri B Ward of Sokoto North LGA.
Dr. Balarabe commended the turnout of women, especially pregnant women, at health facilities for consultations and pregnancy tests. However, she lamented the challenges plaguing the health sector, including inadequate infrastructure, lack of resources, and poor conditions in public health institutions.
“Patients often face numerous problems in public health institutions, such as atrocities, loud disturbances, lack of water, and power outages,” she noted.
The commissioner expressed optimism about Governor Ahmad Aliyu’s commitment to revitalizing the health sector. She applauded the recent recruitment of 864 nurses and midwives to address manpower shortages and announced plans to recruit more supporting staff to replace those who have retired or passed away.
The state government’s efforts aim to mitigate the spread of the outbreak while addressing the systemic issues that have hindered healthcare delivery in Sokoto for years.
