At least 13 people have lost their lives to a cholera outbreak across six local government areas of Niger State, with over 230 others receiving treatment at various health facilities, authorities confirmed on Wednesday.
The outbreak, which was first detected in Shiroro Local Government Area on Sunday, has since spread to Chanchaga, Bosso, Magama, Bida, and Munya LGAs. Health officials have identified Chanchaga, Bosso, and Shiroro as the hardest-hit communities.
A health worker familiar with the situation, who requested anonymity, disclosed that over 239 individuals are currently undergoing treatment at primary healthcare centres set up in the affected regions.
Confirming the development, the state’s Commissioner for Primary Healthcare, Dr. Ibrahim Dangana, said the government had responded swiftly by activating a multi-sectoral strategy to contain the spread.
“We are not leaving anything to chance. Treatment and isolation centres have been established in the affected areas,” Dangana stated.
“We are also intensifying sensitisation campaigns, especially through religious platforms like CAN and Islamic organisations, as well as across the eight emirates in the state.”
In addition, the state government has opened an isolation facility at the old wing of the Idris Ibrahim Kuta Primary Healthcare Centre along Old Airport Road in Minna.
The Commissioner appreciated the swift intervention of Governor Mohammed Bago and lauded the contributions of donor agencies supporting the state’s response to the outbreak.
Also speaking, the Director of Public Health in the Ministry of Tertiary Healthcare, Dr. Ibrahim Idris, reiterated that Chanchaga, Bosso, and Shiroro were the epicentres of the outbreak.
Cholera, a highly contagious waterborne disease, typically spreads through the consumption of contaminated food and water, especially in areas with poor sanitation.
Health officials are urging residents to observe proper hygiene practices and report symptoms early to prevent further fatalities.