The Borno State Government has confirmed the outbreak of cholera following the devastating flooding incident that devastated Maiduguri and some parts of the state recently. The state’s Commissioner for Health and Human Services, Professor Baba Gana made the disclosure during a briefing at the Eye Centre in Maiduguri, the Borno State capital. He disclosed that out of 200 samples sent for laboratory testing, 17 were confirmed positive for cholera.
“The outbreak is a direct consequence of the recent flood disaster that ravaged parts of the state,” Prof. Gana said. Professor Gana further identified the local government areas affected to include Jere, Mafa, Konduga, Dikwa, and Maiduguri Metropolitan Council (MMC).
According to the Commissioner, a total of 451 suspected cases have been reported across these LGAs but only 17 were confirmed to have contracted cholera. He however stated that the state government has swiftly responded by deploying measures to control the spread of the disease. In collaboration with humanitarian partners such as the World Health Organization (WHO) and Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF), facilities have been set up to manage and treat suspected cases.
Additionally, he said the state government has approved immediate distribution of 400,000 vaccines as part of its containment strategy. “The government is taking all necessary steps to ensure this outbreak is controlled and that residents receive proper care and treatment,” Prof. Gana assured.
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