By MUHAMMAD DANBABA
Urgent Response Needed as Flooding and Poor Sanitation Contribute to Health Crisis
The Borno State Government has officially announced a cholera outbreak, with a concerning total of 451 confirmed cases recorded to date. This alarming development was revealed on Friday by Prof. Baba Mallam Gana, the state’s Commissioner for Health, during a press conference held in Maiduguri.
Understanding Cholera: Transmission and Risks
Prof. Gana highlighted the highly contagious nature of cholera, which spreads through the fecal-oral route, typically within an incubation period of 2 to 5 days. He emphasized that the recent catastrophic floods in the state, which displaced over two million residents and severely damaged essential health infrastructure, have significantly contributed to this outbreak.
Contributing Factors to the Outbreak
The commissioner identified several risk factors exacerbating the cholera situation, including:
– **Poor Sanitation and Hygiene**: Lack of adequate sanitation facilities and personal hygiene practices.
– **Open Defecation**: Widespread open defecation practices in affected areas.
– **Food and Water Safety**: Inadequate food and water storage methods.
– **Limited Access to Clean Water**: Insufficient potable water supply for the population.
– **High Population Density**: Crowded living conditions, particularly in internally displaced persons (IDP) camps and during large gatherings.
The local government areas most affected by the outbreak include Maiduguri Metropolitan Council, Jere, Konduga, Mafa, and Monguno.
Call to Action: Collaboration for Effective Response
Prof. Gana urged all relevant ministries, agencies, and partners to collaborate and implement effective measures to control the cholera outbreak. He expressed gratitude to Governor Babagana Umara Zulum for his ongoing support to flood-affected communities, highlighting significant infrastructural developments in the health sector and the allocation of 15% of the 2024 budget for health initiatives.
Role of Media in Public Awareness
The commissioner stressed the critical role of the media in disseminating information about cholera prevention, urging them to partner with the government to educate and raise awareness among the public regarding the dangers of cholera and effective preventive measures.
