Sokoto State is grappling with a cholera outbreak that has claimed 25 lives across three local government areas. The State Commissioner of Health, Asabe Balarabe, disclosed this during an interview on Monday, confirming that 15 active cases are currently under treatment in Sokoto North, Silame, and Kware LGAs.
According to Balarabe, the 15 cases were diagnosed through laboratory tests involving culture and sensitivity, confirming their status as cholera infections. She further revealed that a total of 1,160 people have been affected by the outbreak, with 25 victims succumbing to the disease.
In response to the outbreak, the state government has deployed rapid response teams collaborating with local authorities to manage cases and prevent further spread. “The state government has ordered the immediate purchase and distribution of essential drugs, free of charge, to 18 local government areas to curb the spread of the disease,” Balarabe stated.
The commissioner acknowledged challenges in the health sector, including dilapidated infrastructure, inadequate resources, and staffing shortages, which have persisted over the past eight years. She expressed optimism that Governor Ahmed Aliyu’s administration would prioritize revitalizing the health sector.
Balarabe commended Governor Aliyu for the recruitment of 864 nurses and midwives to address manpower shortages in public health facilities. She also noted that plans are underway to recruit additional staff to replace those who have retired or passed away.
The cholera outbreak has severely impacted communities like Bazza and Gidadawa in Sokoto Metropolis, where several victims died, and others are receiving treatment at health facilities, including the Bazza Primary Health Centre and Kofar Rini Clinic in Waziri B Ward, Sokoto North LGA.
Despite the challenges, the commissioner praised the increased turnout of women, particularly pregnant women, at health institutions for consultations and medical tests, underscoring a growing trust in the health system’s capacity to provide care.
Efforts are ongoing to address not only the immediate outbreak but also the underlying issues affecting public health service delivery in the state.
