The state’s Commissioner for Health, Asabe Balarabe , disclosed during a press briefing on Monday that at least 25 individuals have lost their lives due to a gastroenteritis outbreak, commonly referred to as cholera, in three local government areas of Sokoto State, with a total of 1,160 reported cases.

The commissioner stated that 15 more individuals are currently undergoing treatment for the outbreak in Sokoto North, Silame, and Kware local government areas. These cases were confirmed through laboratory tests that assessed culture and sensitivity, confirming them as active cholera infections.

She explained that out of the 1,160 affected, 25 have unfortunately died from the disease. She also noted that rescue teams are working with the state government to manage the outbreak and prevent further spread.

In response to the outbreak, the state government has ordered the immediate purchase and free distribution of medications to all 18 local government areas to help contain the disease. The commissioner commended the strong turnout of women, particularly pregnant women, who sought medical consultations and pregnancy tests at various health facilities in the state.

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However, she also highlighted the ongoing challenges facing the health sector, including outdated infrastructure and insufficient resources, which have hindered progress for the past eight years. She expressed hope that Governor Ahmad Aliyu would prioritize the revitalization of the state’s healthcare system.

“The numerous issues patients face in public health institutions include poor facilities, noise, water shortages, and power outages,” Balarabe pointed out.

She commended the governor for recently recruiting 864 nurses and midwives to address staff shortages in public health facilities. However, she mentioned that plans are underway to recruit additional support staff to replace those who have died or retired without replacements.

Based on local reports , cholera and diarrhea outbreak has been particularly severe in the Bazza and Gidadawa communities in Sokoto metropolis, where some victims have died, while others are receiving treatment at primary health centers in Bazza and Kofar Rini clinics, located in Waziri B Ward of Sokoto North LGA.

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