The Borno State Government has declared a cholera outbreak following severe flooding that has impacted the region, with 451 cases reported thus far.

The flooding, triggered by the collapse of the Alau Dam, has devastated Maiduguri and surrounding communities, leading to the displacement of about 2million residents and causing widespread destruction of health facilities.

During an emergency meeting at the Emergency Operations Center (EOC) in Maiduguri on Friday, October 4, 2024, the Borno State Commissioner of Health and Human Services, Prof Baba Malam Gana, confirmed the cholera outbreak and stressed the need for immediate action to curb the spread of the disease.

According to Gana, “We are currently facing a cholera outbreak in Borno State, which is highly contagious and can spread through the fecal-oral route, with an incubation period of approximately 2 to 5 days.”

The commissioner linked the outbreak to the recent severe floods that had displaced over two million people and damaged vital health infrastructure.

“Risk factors contributing to the outbreak include poor sanitation and personal hygiene, open defecation, inadequate food and water storage, a lack of sufficient potable water supply for the population, and high population density, particularly in IDP camps and during gatherings,” the commissioner said.

The local government areas affected include Maiduguri Metropolitan Council, Jere, Konduga, Mafa, and Monguno.

“I urge all ministries, agencies, departments, and partners to collaborate and implement effective measures to control the ongoing cholera outbreak.”

“The media plays a crucial role in partnering with the government to inform, educate, and raise awareness about the dangers of cholera and preventive measures,” Gana added.

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