A recent outbreak of gastroenteritis, commonly known as cholera, has claimed the lives of at least 25 individuals in Sokoto State, with a total of 1,160 cases reported.
State Commissioner for Health, Asabe Balarabe, announced these figures during a press briefing on Monday, revealing that 15 patients are currently being treated for active cases in the Sokoto North, Silame, and Kware local government areas.
Balarabe confirmed that laboratory tests have validated these 15 cases as active cholera infections. She emphasized the urgency of the situation, stating that the state government is collaborating with rescue teams to manage the outbreak and prevent further spread of the disease.
In response to the crisis, the government has initiated the immediate procurement and distribution of free medications across 18 local government areas.
During her address, Balarabe acknowledged the significant turnout of women seeking medical consultations and pregnancy tests at health facilities.
However, she also highlighted ongoing challenges within the health sector, including deteriorating infrastructure and insufficient resources that have hindered progress over the past eight years. The commissioner expressed hope that Governor Ahmad Aliyu would prioritize revitalizing the health sector.
She noted that public health institutions face numerous issues such as overcrowding, noise disturbances, and frequent power outages.
To address staffing shortages, Balarabe praised the governor's recent recruitment of 864 nurses and midwives while indicating plans to hire additional support staff to replace those who have retired or passed away.
Reports indicate that affected individuals from this cholera outbreak are primarily located in Bazza and Gidadawa communities within Sokoto Metropolis.
Some victims have succumbed to the illness while others continue to receive treatment at local primary health centers.
