Cholera Outbreaks Surge in Borno and Plateau States

Cholera outbreaks have escalated in Borno and Plateau states, Nigeria, with Borno reporting 35 deaths and 3,646 new infections within a week, according to Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF). As of early June, Borno recorded 74 deaths and 7,850 suspected cases across 12 local government areas.

The Maiduguri metropolitan area remains the epicenter, accounting for half of reported infections. The influx of patients from internally displaced persons (IDP) camps in Monguno has strained resources, with 296 suspected cases recorded in just three days.

Health workers reported that 90% of patients seeking treatment were from IDP camps. In Plateau State, Dr. Nichola Baamlong confirmed five deaths and 52 suspected cases in Mangu Local Government Area.

Health experts, including Dr. Aliyu Isah, attribute the outbreaks to failures in water and sanitation systems, emphasizing the urgent need for improved access to clean water and sanitation facilities to prevent further spread.