Minna, Oct. 16, 2024 (TheGavel) – A cholera outbreak in Niger State has claimed the lives of 16 individuals, with a total of 165 cases recorded across five local government areas, according to the state’s Commissioner for Primary Healthcare, Dr. Dangana Ibrahim. The fatality rate from the outbreak stands at 9%.
Speaking after a meeting of the State Taskforce Committee on Primary Healthcare and Immunisation, chaired by Deputy Governor Yakubu Garba in Minna, Dr. Ibrahim confirmed that out of the 165 cases, 145 patients have already been successfully treated and discharged.
“To prevent further spread, contingency measures have been implemented, including the distribution of essential medical supplies to affected areas and health facilities,” Ibrahim stated, stressing the urgency of the situation.
The outbreak has affected five local government areas: Paiko, Gurara, Suleja, Bosso, and Katcha. In response, the state’s disease surveillance system has been activated to ensure a swift response. Active contact tracing and case management are ongoing in all affected communities as part of the containment strategy.
Dr. Ibrahim highlighted that the state government has intensified public sensitisation and awareness campaigns, particularly focusing on personal and environmental hygiene practices to prevent further outbreaks. These efforts are being carried out in collaboration with community leaders and healthcare workers in the affected areas.
He also explained the importance of the State Taskforce Committee on Primary Healthcare and Immunisation, noting that it was established to promote inter-sectoral collaboration and improve healthcare delivery in the state. The committee comprises members from various ministries, departments, and agencies, alongside partners like the World Health Organization (WHO), UNICEF, and the National Primary Healthcare Development Agency (NPHCDA).
In its inaugural meeting, the task force reviewed the current challenges facing primary healthcare in the state, identifying gaps and areas for improvement. The discussions align with Governor Umaru Bago’s vision of enhancing healthcare access under the “New Niger Agenda,” which prioritizes healthcare delivery, safe childbirth, and immunisation programs to protect residents from preventable diseases.
“The state government is committed to ensuring the health and well-being of all residents, and we are confident that with effective implementation of our strategies, we can control the spread of diseases and improve the quality of healthcare services,” Ibrahim added.
Niger State continues to grapple with the cholera outbreak, but the ongoing efforts are aimed at mitigating further impact and preventing the spread to other regions.(NAN)
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