Ismail Kundu, former Head of Nursing Services at General Hospital Kagara, has warned that the season brings a surge in illnesses caused by floodwaters, stagnant water, and poor sanitation. The warning is coming as the rainy season intensifies across Niger State, raising alarms about the rising risks of disease outbreaks, particularly among children.
By Anna Moses
“Children are especially vulnerable to illnesses during this season due to exposure to floodwaters, mosquito bites, and damp environments,” said Kundu.
He noted that common health problems include gastroenteritis, cholera, malaria, skin infections, respiratory tract infections, and abdominal pain — all of which can be life-threatening if not promptly treated.
Floodwaters often contaminate drinking water sources, increasing the spread of waterborne diseases like cholera, which causes severe diarrhea and dehydration. Without immediate treatment using Oral Rehydration Solution (ORS) and access to clean water, affected children can deteriorate rapidly.
Mosquito-borne diseases like malaria also spike during this period due to increased breeding in stagnant water. According to Alhaji Kundu, malaria continues to be a leading cause of illness and death among children in the region, especially between July and October, when rainfall and food insecurity collide, increasing the burden of malnutrition and disease.
Health experts recommend several key actions for families to protect children during the rainy season:
- Maintain personal hygiene, including regular handwashing
- Eliminate stagnant water around homes and schools
- Boil or treat drinking water before consumption
- Use mosquito nets to prevent bites at night
- Avoid raw or street food, which may be contaminated
- Seek prompt treatment for any symptoms of diarrhea, fever, or rash
“Cholera, malaria, and other infections thrive in this season — but they are preventable with awareness and simple actions,” Kundu emphasized.
In addition to physical risks, Kundu highlighted the mental health impact of the rainy season, urging caregivers to also monitor signs of stress and anxiety in children. Environmental stressors, illness, and disrupted routines can take a toll on children’s mental well-being, he said.
As the rains continue, residents of Niger State are urged to be proactive and vigilant. Government health agencies and communities must work together to ensure clean environments, rapid disease response, and access to healthcare, especially for vulnerable groups like children.
“We must not wait for outbreaks to act. Prevention, early intervention, and education are our best tools,” said Kundu.
Use insecticide-treated mosquito nets, Boil drinking water or use water purification tablets, Keep children away from floodwaters, Store food properly to avoid contamination, and Seek medical care early for fevers, diarrhea, or skin issues
