Unknown disease kills five in Jigawa

No fewer than five people are feared dead in Diginsa Ward, Birniwa Local Government Area of Jigawa State, following an outbreak of a strange disease suspected to be cholera.

Reports indicate that the disease, initially reported in Diginsa Ward, has now spread to several villages within the ward, resulting in the death of at least five individuals.

Hamza Audu, a villager from Fulanin Dallah, told Online Tribune, “The disease started in Mara village, which is close to our village, a few weeks ago.”

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He continued, “When it first started, there was little action taken. Some affected individuals received basic medication from chemists and the small clinic in Diginsa.”

Malam Hamza Audu explained that panic set in as the disease spread among residents, leading to additional fatalities.

He noted that government intervention was delayed, with no initial response for several days. The situation worsened, spreading to nearby villages, including Fulanin Dallah.

“Over time, the outbreak spread to many villages, including ours, Fulanin Dallah, where we lost a housewife to the disease.”

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He added, “To my knowledge, the affected areas include Mara, where the disease was first reported. Many people have died, and I am not sure of the exact number. In our village, Fulanin Dallah, one woman died; two people died in Madanna; and another two people lost their lives. I am aware of at least five deaths.”

Online Tribune has learned that the state Ministry of Health has responded by sending a team of medical personnel to the affected areas.

A source from the ministry, who requested anonymity, stated, “I am not authorized to speak to the media. That is the responsibility of the commissioner. However, I can confirm that a team of health personnel is on the ground doing their best. An isolated ward has been established at Birniwa General Hospital where all patients are being admitted.”

Attempts to contact Commissioner Dr. Abdullahi Kainuwa by phone and text have been unsuccessful.

In related developments, the state government has proposed a bill to the State House of Assembly to enhance public health security. The bill aims to establish isolation centers at local government and ward levels and allocate health personnel for managing emergency situations.

A source at the House of Assembly reported that the bill has passed its second reading and, with unanimous consent, has been referred to the House Committee on Public Accounts. The committee is expected to report back within four weeks.