At least 25 people have been confirmed dead due to a gastroenteritis outbreak, commonly known as cholera, across three local government areas in the state. The outbreak has affected a total of 1,160 individuals, with health officials actively working to manage the situation.
State Commissioner for Health, Asabe Balarabe, shared the update on Monday, revealing that 15 active cases are currently being treated in Sokoto North, Silame, and Kware local government areas. These cases were confirmed through laboratory tests and are being closely monitored.
“Out of the 1,160 cases, 25 victims have tragically died from the disease,” Balarabe said, adding that rescue teams are collaborating with the state government to contain and prevent further spread of the outbreak.
In response to the crisis, the state government has directed the immediate purchase and free distribution of medical supplies to all 18 local government areas, aiming to curb the continued spread of the disease.
Balarabe also commended the large number of women, particularly pregnant women, who have sought medical consultations and pregnancy tests at various health facilities in the state. However, she highlighted ongoing challenges in the health sector, such as outdated infrastructure and a lack of resources, which have hindered progress over the past eight years.
She expressed hope that Governor Ahmad Aliyu would prioritize revitalizing the state’s health sector, emphasizing the urgent need for improvements. “Public health institutions face numerous challenges, including overcrowding, noise, water shortages, and power outages,” she said.
On a positive note, Balarabe acknowledged the governor’s recent recruitment of 864 nurses and midwives to address the shortage of healthcare workers in state-run facilities. She also announced plans to recruit additional support staff to replace those who have either passed away or retired without being replaced.
Meanwhile, in the Sokoto Metropolis, cholera and diarrhea cases have been reported in the Bazza and Gidadawa communities. Victims have received treatment at Primary Health Centres in Bazza and Kofar Rini clinics, located in the Waziri B Ward of Sokoto North LGA, with some individuals still undergoing treatment.