Borno State is battling a major cholera outbreak that has already claimed 37 lives and infected more than 3,000 people across several communities, raising fresh concerns over public health and sanitation in the state.
Health authorities confirmed that the outbreak, which was first reported in early May, has spread rapidly across 36 wards in seven local government areas, with Maiduguri and Jere recording the highest number of cases.
According to the Executive Secretary of the Borno State Contributory Healthcare Management Agency (BOSCHMA), Dr. Saleh Abba Kaza, the situation has placed enormous pressure on the state’s healthcare system as new infections continue to emerge daily.
He disclosed that over 100 new cases were recorded within the last 24 hours, while Maiduguri Metropolitan Council alone has accounted for more than 2,000 infections, with Jere reporting over 1,000 cases.
Other affected areas include Mafa, Konduga, Monguno, Ngala, and Magumeri, bringing the total number of impacted communities to more than 138.
Dr. Kaza warned that contaminated water sources, poor sanitation, and open defecation remain key factors driving the outbreak, especially as the rainy season increases the risk of disease transmission.
He urged residents to prioritize hygiene by washing hands regularly, treating drinking water, ensuring proper waste disposal, and avoiding unsafe food handling practices.
The health official also advised residents to immediately report symptoms such as severe vomiting and watery diarrhoea to the nearest healthcare facility, stressing that early treatment can save lives.
According to him, the state government is working to secure cholera vaccines, but emphasized that vaccination alone cannot replace basic hygiene and sanitation measures needed to stop the spread.
Kaza further acknowledged the support of international health partners, including the World Health Organization (WHO), UNICEF, Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF), and Save the Children, for assisting ongoing response efforts.
As authorities race to contain the outbreak, residents have been urged to remain vigilant and cooperate with health officials to prevent further loss of lives.
Source: Borno State Contributory Healthcare Management Agency (BOSCHMA)
