Cholera Outbreak Claims 25 Lives in Sokoto, 15 Hospitalized

A recent cholera outbreak has claimed the lives of at least 25 people in Sokoto State, with 1,160 confirmed cases across three local government areas. The state’s Commissioner of Health, Asabe Balarabe, provided this update on Monday, revealing that 15 active cases are currently being treated in Sokoto North, Silame, and Kware LGAs. These cases were confirmed through laboratory tests based on culture and sensitivity results.

The commissioner reported that efforts to contain the outbreak are ongoing, with rescue teams working in partnership with the state government to prevent further spread. In response to the crisis, the state has already initiated the purchase and free distribution of medications across 18 local government areas.

Despite the ongoing efforts, the commissioner also pointed to significant challenges facing the state’s health sector, including dilapidated infrastructure and limited resources, which have hindered progress for the past eight years. She expressed hope that the current governor, Ahmad Aliyu, would prioritize the revitalization of healthcare facilities.

Notably, the commissioner acknowledged the increased participation of women, especially pregnant women, seeking medical consultations and pregnancy tests at local health centers. She also commended the governor for addressing the shortage of healthcare personnel by recruiting 864 nurses and midwives, and indicated plans to hire additional staff to fill vacancies caused by retirements and fatalities.

Reports from Bazza and Gidadawa communities in Sokoto Metropolis suggest that these areas have been particularly hard-hit, with some victims dying while others continue to receive treatment at local health centers.