Cholera outbreak hits Niger communities

October 9, 2024

An outbreak of cholera has been reported in Katcha Local Government Area of Niger State, affecting numerous individuals.

The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Health, Dr Muhammad Gana, confirmed the outbreak while speaking to journalists.

Dr Gana noted that the ministry has already dispatched a team of health professionals equipped with necessary commodities to the community to contain the spread of the disease.

Similarly, there are rising concerns about suspected cases of cholera in Paiko, Paikoro Local Government Area. During a visit by our reporter to Paiko Modern Clinic, it was revealed that several patients with cholera have been admitted, with a dedicated ward already set up for the affected individuals.

A healthcare worker at the facility, speaking on condition of anonymity, confirmed that they have recorded at least four new cases and several deaths. However, the head of the hospital declined to speak to the reporter.

The situation in Paiko is further exacerbated by a water shortage at the health facility, as relatives of patients face difficulties in sourcing water for basic tasks such as washing dishes and clothes and providing drinking water. A woman caring for her two children in the hospital’s paediatric ward expressed her frustration over the lack of potable water and a broken borehole at the facility.

Reports indicate that the Niger State Government currently lacks vaccines to prevent the spread of cholera, putting the affected communities at significant risk.

When contacted, Dr Muhammad Gana mentioned that the ministry had not yet received reports of cholera in Paikoro Local Government Area. He further emphasised the importance of personal and environmental hygiene, as cholera is a waterborne disease linked to poor sanitation.

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