Cholera Outbreak Claims 25 Lives in Sokoto, 15 Still Hospitalised
A cholera outbreak has claimed no fewer than 25 lives in Sokoto State, with 1,160 cases recorded across three Local Government Areas. The state Commissioner of Health, Asabe Balarabe, revealed this during a press briefing on Monday.
Balarabe noted that 15 patients are currently receiving treatment for confirmed cases of cholera in Sokoto North, Silame, and Kware Local Government Areas. Laboratory tests confirmed these cases as part of the outbreak.
She stated, “Out of the 1,160 people affected, 25 have succumbed to the disease. Rescue teams are collaborating with the state government to manage the situation and prevent further spread.”
The state government has responded by distributing free drugs to 18 local government areas to contain the disease.
The commissioner highlighted longstanding challenges in the health sector, such as poor infrastructure, resource shortages, and inadequate facilities. However, she praised Governor Ahmad Aliyu for recruiting 864 nurses and midwives to address staffing shortages and expressed hope for further improvements in the health sector.
Meanwhile, our correspondent reports that victims of the outbreak in Bazza and Gidadawa communities in Sokoto Metropolis are receiving treatment at local primary health centres. Some residents in these areas have tragically lost their lives, while others continue to battle the disease.
Efforts are underway to recruit additional staff to replace retirees and deceased personnel, ensuring better service delivery in the state’s healthcare facilities.
