Doctors Without Borders/Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) has raised the alarm over the rapidly escalating cholera outbreak in Zamfara State, warning that the disease is spreading fast in communities already grappling with insecurity, displacement, and limited access to clean water.
From mid-June to early August, MSF-supported facilities under the state Ministry of Health (MOH) recorded over 1,500 suspected cases. Other humanitarian organisations and the MOH have also reported alarming figures from different parts of the state.
“This outbreak is unfolding in a context of insecurity, displacement, and poor sanitation – all worsened by the rainy season,” said Dr. David Kizito, MSF’s Medical Coordinator in Nigeria.
Why cholera cases are rising
Although cholera is endemic in Nigeria, outbreaks often intensify between April and October. Seasonal flooding contaminates water sources, driving transmission in areas where sanitation is poor. Cholera can cause severe diarrhoea and vomiting, and without prompt treatment, death can occur within hours.
To combat the spread, MSF has intensified its Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH) interventions, alongside awareness campaigns in partnership with other humanitarian agencies and the MOH. On 3 July, the MOH activated a Public Health Emergency Operations Centre (EOC) to coordinate the response. MSF has concentrated efforts in high-risk areas such as Shinkafi, Zurmi, and Talata Mafara, where clean water remains scarce.
“Simple measures like boiling drinking water, washing hands regularly, eating freshly cooked food, avoiding open defecation, and keeping vaccinations up to date can save lives,” said Dr. Ahmad Bilal, MSF’s Head of Mission in Nigeria.
Expanding treatment to save lives
Following the first suspected case in mid-June at an MSF-supported facility, the organisation scaled up case management and surveillance across the state.
In Zurmi, MSF and partners supported the MOH in opening a Cholera Treatment Centre (CTC) at Zurmi General Hospital, which treated 562 suspected cases between 16 June and 5 August — mostly from Yambuki, Kadamusa, and Zurmi town.
In Shinkafi, a CTC opened at the General Hospital in July, recording about 401 suspected cases between 11 July and 5 August. Most came from Shinkafi North Ward, especially Alkalawa, Sabon Gari, and Kurya. Fifty-eight cases originated from Isa LGA in neighbouring Sokoto State.
In Talata Mafara, a Cholera Treatment Unit (CTU) established at the General Hospital treated over 600 suspected cases between 1 July and 8 August, with Kayaye as the most affected area. Patients also came from as far as Anka and Bakura LGAs.
The road ahead
MSF fears that more cases will emerge in the coming weeks.
“We urge the rapid establishment of decentralised oral rehydration points and the capacity for all primary healthcare centres to treat mild and moderate cases,” Dr. Kizito said. “This will ensure patients are treated quickly, prevent complications, and allow timely referrals to larger centres. Above all, urgent cholera vaccination is needed to stop the outbreak and save lives. No one should die from a preventable disease.”
