Epidemic (human)

At least no fewer than 37 people were killed, with over 3,000 infected, following an acute breakdown of cholera in many parts of Borno, including Maiduguri, the state capital. Sources and relevant authorities have confirmed.Although our correspondent observed that the Ministry of Health and Human Services in the state is yet to set up an emergency response initiative or brief the media on the surge, in an advisory statement at the weekend by Executive Secretary Borno State Contributory Healthcare Management Agency (BOSCHMA), Dr. Saleh Abba Kaza said the first incident report was on the 1st of May and confirmation was on the 4th of May.The statement reads: “It is confirmed that we are facing a serious health crisis as a devastating cholera outbreak has struck Borno, with over 3,000 reported cases and 37 tragic deaths across 36 wards in 7 local government areas (LGAs) within the month of May.“In the ongoing event, in the last 24 hrs over 100 cases were reported, and over the last 29 days of May, Maiduguri Metropolitan Council (MMC) has the highest incidence, recording more than 2,000 cases, followed by Jere with over 1,000.
“Additional LGAs involved include Mafa, Konduga, Monguno, Ngala, and Magumeri, affecting over 138 communities in total.“The current situation, with a concerning 1% case fatality rate, has overwhelmed our health infrastructure, and immediate collective action is essential to combat the spread of this illness,” Kaza stated.Continuing, he said, “To protect our communities, we urge you to implement the following critical measures:“1. Enhance Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) Practices:– Contamination of pipe-borne water and dams in many communities has been detected. Chlorination of our water is very important.– Open defecation remains a serious risk. Please ensure proper waste disposal to prevent contamination.