Cholera Case: See the Numbers of Suspected Cholera Cases in Katsina, Kaduna and Kano
Amid Nigeria’s escalating cholera outbreak, data from the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) indicates that 31 states have reported 528 confirmed cases, resulting in 53 deaths across 117 local governments.Â
The federal, state, and local governments, along with their partners, are taking active measures to control the outbreak. President Bola Tinubu has approved a multi-sectoral cabinet committee, led by the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Ali Pate, to manage the epidemic.
In Katsina, the state government announced 118 suspected cholera cases, with two confirmed. They are implementing proactive measures to prevent further outbreaks. Dr. Kabir Suleiman, Director of Epidemiology at the state Primary Healthcare Development Agency, shared this information with the News Agency of Nigeria.
Dr. Suleiman explained that cholera is a bacterial disease identified by acute diarrhea. He noted an outbreak in Kusada local government in March, which involved 68 suspected cases, including two confirmed cases and one death. The government, with development partners, effectively managed the situation.
Recently, 118 suspected cholera samples were tested, all returning negative. Dr. Suleiman assured that the state is prepared for any emergencies. The state, in collaboration with development partners, has the necessary equipment to combat such outbreaks, and Rapid Response Teams have been trained in proper detection and management.
Preventative measures include producing jingles to educate residents on cholera causes, treatment, and prevention. About 3,000 Volunteer Community Mobilizers (VCMs) are visiting homes to promote personal hygiene. Additionally, Oral Rehydration Points have been established at 34 Comprehensive Health Centres (CHCs) for treating cholera cases. A continuous surveillance system is in place to monitor potential outbreaks.
The government is also constructing 102 Primary Healthcare Centres (PHCs) across the state to improve rural healthcare services. Dr. Suleiman urged residents to maintain personal hygiene and environmental sanitation to prevent disease outbreaks.
In Kaduna, the State Primary Health Care Board (SPHCB) reported no cholera cases, despite its presence in neighboring states. Dr. Abdullahi Musa, the board’s Disease Surveillance and Notification Officer (DSNO), stated that the state is prepared for any emergencies, with a reactivated rapid response team and designated health facilities ready to act.
The state has sensitized personnel on cholera identification and is running public awareness campaigns on the disease’s transmission, symptoms, and prevention. Water purification efforts are underway, with over 260,000 wells marked for chlorination.
Kano State also reported no cholera cases. Health Commissioner Dr. Abubakar Labaran confirmed that proactive measures are in place to safeguard the public. The state’s Emergency Preparedness Response (EPR) committee has been activated, and public awareness campaigns are being conducted.
Prof. Muhammad Abbas, Director-General of the Kano State Centre for Disease Control (KNCDC), urged residents to take cholera seriously and practice good hygiene. He highlighted common symptoms and advised immediate medical attention for suspected cases. The state is prepared to address any public health threats with the ministry’s support.