A cholera outbreak has claimed the lives of 25 people in Sokoto State, with 15 others currently receiving treatment in three affected local government areas. The state has reported a total of 1,160 cases of the disease, also known as gastroenteritis.
The Sokoto State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Asabe Balarabe, revealed the grim statistics during a press briefing on Monday.
The outbreak has primarily impacted Sokoto North, Silame, and Kware local government areas. Dr. Balarabe confirmed that the 15 active cases were diagnosed through laboratory tests based on culture and sensitivity, ensuring the accuracy of the cholera diagnoses.
“Out of the 1,160 cases reported, 25 lives have already been lost to this outbreak,” she stated.
In response to the outbreak, the Sokoto State Government has mobilized resources to prevent further spread. Dr. Balarabe emphasized the swift action taken, including the immediate purchase and distribution of essential drugs to 18 local government areas, all provided free of charge.
“The state’s rescue teams are working closely with the government to manage the outbreak and mitigate its impact,” she noted.
Dr. Balarabe also highlighted the ongoing challenges facing the state’s healthcare system, including outdated infrastructure, insufficient resources, and staffing shortages that have hindered progress for nearly a decade.
“Patients in public health institutions face significant challenges such as lack of water, power outages, and overcrowding,” she said.
However, she commended Governor Ahmad Aliyu’s efforts to revitalize the sector, including the recruitment of 864 nurses and midwives to address the manpower shortage in public health facilities.
Dr. Balarabe expressed optimism about the future of healthcare in the state. She revealed plans to recruit additional supporting staff to replace retired workers and fill gaps caused by workforce losses.
She also praised the increasing number of women, particularly pregnant women, seeking medical consultations and prenatal care at state health institutions, signaling growing trust in public healthcare services.
As the state continues to battle this cholera outbreak, residents are urged to remain vigilant, prioritize hygiene, and seek medical attention at the first sign of symptoms. The government’s proactive measures, combined with public cooperation, aim to bring the situation under control and prevent further loss of life.
