Cholera Crisis Strikes Flood-Devastated Borno

A cholera outbreak has emerged in Borno, Nigeria, amidst ongoing flooding issues that displaced nearly 2 million people. Seventeen cases of cholera have been confirmed, with no fatalities reported yet. The state has received cholera vaccines to counter the spread, but more doses are needed.

A cholera outbreak has swept through Nigeria's northeastern Borno state, adding to the challenges faced by a region already suffering from the devastating effects of recent flooding. Nearly 2 million people have been displaced due to these floods, according to an official report released Friday.

Borno has a history of cholera outbreaks, as it grapples with the aftermath of a long-standing Islamist insurgency. This situation has overwhelmed sanitation facilities and potable water sources, heightening the risk of waterborne diseases. Borno Health Commissioner Baba Mallam Gana confirmed 17 verified cases of cholera, emphasizing that no deaths have been reported so far.

Gana highlighted the troubling rise in cases of Acute Watery Diarrhea (AWD) linked to flood impacts, with nearly 500 occurrences recorded, primarily affecting five local government areas. In response, the state received 300,000 doses of oral cholera vaccine from the federal health ministry, distributed among displacement camps and flood-stricken areas. An additional 600,000 doses are awaited to ensure comprehensive coverage and address the outbreak effectively.

(With inputs from agencies.)