Health authorities in central Nigeria have launched emergency measures following a deadly cholera outbreak in Niger State, where at least 12 people have died and over 230 others have been hospitalised in recent days.
The outbreak, which began over the weekend in Shiroro Local Government Area, has since spread to six districts, including parts of Minna, Bosso, Munya, and Magama. Public health officials have linked the spread to contaminated water sources and poor sanitation in rural areas.
A temporary isolation centre has been established in the capital city, Minna, as the government ramps up its response. Medical teams are working around the clock to provide intravenous hydration and antibiotics to affected individuals.
Dr Ibrahim Dangana, Niger’s Commissioner for Primary Healthcare, said a cross-agency taskforce had been deployed to coordinate relief and prevention efforts.
“We’re engaging local leaders, churches, mosques, and traditional institutions to raise awareness about hygiene and prevention,” Dangana said. “This outbreak is serious, but we are doing everything we can to bring it under control.”
Dr Ibrahim Idris, Director of Public Health at the Ministry of Tertiary Healthcare, described the outbreak as one of the most severe in recent memory, citing Chanchaga and Bosso as epicentres.
The authorities have called for public vigilance and advised residents to avoid untreated water, practise proper handwashing, and seek medical help at the first sign of diarrhoeal symptoms.
