The Borno State Government has announced a cholera outbreak following devastating flooding in the region, with 451 cases reported to date.
The flooding, caused by the collapse of the Alau Dam, has severely affected Maiduguri and surrounding communities, displacing approximately two million residents and destroying critical health facilities.
During an emergency meeting at the Emergency Operations Center (EOC) in Maiduguri on Friday, October 4, 2024, Borno State Commissioner of Health and Human Services, Prof. Baba Malam Gana, confirmed the cholera outbreak and emphasized the urgent need for immediate action to prevent further spread of the disease.
“We are currently facing a cholera outbreak in Borno State, which is highly contagious and can spread through the fecal-oral route, with an incubation period of approximately 2 to 5 days,” Gana stated.
He attributed the outbreak to the recent severe floods that have displaced over two million people and damaged vital health infrastructure.
“Risk factors contributing to the outbreak include poor sanitation and personal hygiene, open defecation, inadequate food and water storage, a lack of sufficient potable water supply for the population, and high population density, particularly in IDP camps and during gatherings,” Gana added.
The affected local government areas include Maiduguri Metropolitan Council, Jere, Konduga, Mafa, and Monguno.
“I urge all ministries, agencies, departments, and partners to collaborate and implement effective measures to control the ongoing cholera outbreak,” he urged.
Gana also highlighted the important role of the media: “The media plays a crucial role in partnering with the government to inform, educate, and raise awareness about the dangers of cholera and preventive measures.”
