Borno State cholera cases rise to 4,204 with 39 deaths

A cholera outbreak in Borno State has intensified, with health officials reporting 274 new suspected cases in a single day, bringing the total number of infections to 4,204. The death toll has risen to 39, according to an update provided by state health authorities on Tuesday.

The outbreak is affecting 36 wards across seven local government areas. Officials identified the Maiduguri Metropolitan Council and Jere as the worst-hit areas, accounting for the majority of cases. Other affected areas include Konduga, Mafa, Monguno, Kaga, Bama, Kwaya Kusar, Ngala, and Magumeri.

In response to the surge, state authorities said they have activated emergency measures. The Incident Manager of the Public Health Emergency Operations Centre, Dr. Jacob Thlizer, outlined steps including the activation of an incident management system, coordination with all health partners, public awareness campaigns in hotspot locations, and the procurement of essential medical supplies.

Treatment infrastructure has been established to manage the growing number of patients. The Permanent Secretary of the Borno State Ministry of Health and Human Services, Shetima Muhammad, said dedicated health centres have been...