A deadly cholera outbreak, also known as gastroenteritis, has claimed at least 25 lives in Sokoto State, with 1,160 reported cases across three local government areas. This was confirmed by the State Commissioner for Health, Asabe Balarabe, in a statement to the press on Monday.
The commissioner revealed that the state is currently managing 15 active cholera cases from Sokoto North, Silame, and Kware local government areas. These cases were confirmed through laboratory tests based on culture and sensitivity. Despite ongoing medical efforts, 25 of the 1,160 affected individuals have unfortunately succumbed to the disease.
In response to the outbreak, the state government has initiated immediate measures to prevent further spread. This includes the free distribution of medicines to 18 local government areas and collaboration with rescue teams to contain the situation.
Balarabe expressed the government’s determination to curtail the disease and mitigate its impact on the population.
The commissioner also commended the large turnout of women, particularly pregnant women, seeking medical consultations and pregnancy tests at health facilities across the state. However, she pointed out significant challenges in the health sector, such as outdated infrastructure, inadequate resources, and long-standing operational issues that have hampered healthcare services for years.
She expressed optimism that Governor Ahmad Aliyu would prioritize the revitalization of the state’s health sector, addressing the shortage of healthcare staff and resources. Notably, the state government recently recruited 864 nurses and midwives to address manpower shortages in public health facilities. Balarabe also indicated plans to recruit additional supporting staff to replace those who have retired or passed away.
Reports from Sokoto North Local Government Area highlight that communities in Bazza and Gidadawa, within the Sokoto metropolis, have been severely affected by the outbreak, with many victims still receiving treatment at Primary Health Centres in these areas.
As the situation unfolds, the government continues to monitor and respond to the outbreak, emphasizing the importance of public health awareness and timely medical intervention.
