Borno State Faces Cholera Outbreak with 35,500 Cases

The cholera outbreak in Borno State, which began on May 1, 2026, has led to over 35,500 suspected cases and 198 deaths as of July 12, 2026, according to the Borno State Ministry of Health. Doctors Without Borders (MSF) reported that health workers are struggling to manage the increasing number of patients suffering from severe dehydration.

Among those affected is 13-year-old Muhammad Usman, who exhibited severe symptoms and was treated at the MSF-supported Cholera Treatment Centre in Maiduguri. MSF has treated over 24,000 suspected cholera patients, with more than 25% presenting severe symptoms.

The outbreak is fueled by overcrowded settlements, inadequate access to clean water, and poor sanitation. MSF has expanded its operations, supporting two Cholera Treatment Centres and conducting community sensitization campaigns.

An oral cholera vaccination campaign in early July reached over 2.6 million people. MSF's Project Medical Coordinator, Bienfait Tombola, stated that despite expanded efforts, transmission is still outpacing containment measures.