Bauchi, Nigeria -Bauchi State Primary Health Care Development Board has reported a concerning rise in suspected cholera cases, tallying 50 potential cases across three local government areas since January.
This announcement was made by Dr. Rilwanu Mohammed, the Executive Chairman of the Board, during the flag-off ceremony for the 2024 Maternal, Newborn, and Child Health (MNCH) Week.
“Currently, we have no confirmed cholera cases in Bauchi State,” Dr. Mohammed clarified. “As of today, July 1, we have recorded 50 suspected cases from Bauchi, Giade, and Toro LGAs. This includes 30 initial cases in Giade, followed by four recent suspected cases in Bauchi LGA, tragically resulting in one death.”
Health officials are rigorously addressing these cases, with samples sent to the National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) for confirmation. The state is mobilizing resources and coordinating with international partners, including UNICEF and WHO, to avert a potential outbreak. “We are prepared and proactive in ensuring there is no outbreak,” Dr. Mohammed asserted, emphasizing the collaborative efforts with these agencies.
The process of testing at the NCDC is thorough and time-consuming, as each suspected case undergoes meticulous scrutiny. “We recently dealt with a gastroenteritis incident in Ningi, where about 100 students suffered from food poisoning,” Dr. Mohammed recounted. “Our swift response ensured it was contained and treated.”
The Board is also focusing on preventative measures. Dr. Mohammed highlighted ongoing collaborations with the Bauchi State Environmental Protection Agency (BASEPA) to clear waterways, ensuring rainwater and wastewater can flow unimpeded, reducing the risk of waterborne diseases.
Community education and hygiene promotion are integral to these efforts. “We are conducting extensive education and enlightenment campaigns across the state to maintain high standards of hygiene and prevent cholera,” Dr. Mohammed stated.
