By Maryam Shuaibu
Borno’s cholera outbreak is showing no signs of slowing down.
Health authorities say at least 39 people have died and more than 4,200 suspected infections have been recorded across 10 local government areas, making it one of the state’s most serious public health emergencies this year.
The latest figures, released on Tuesday, show that 274 new suspected cases were reported within the last 24 hours alone, raising concerns about continued transmission in affected communities.
Officials say Maiduguri Metropolitan Council (MMC) and neighbouring Jere Local Government Area remain the hardest-hit locations, accounting for the vast majority of infections recorded so far.
Speaking during a cholera prevention meeting in Maiduguri, the Incident Manager of the Public Health Emergency Operations Centre, Dr. Jacob Thlizer, said the outbreak had now spread to 36 wards across the state.
“New suspected cases in the last 24 hours are 274, while the total suspected cases line-listed are 4,204. In total, we now have 39 deaths,” he said.
While health authorities continue emergency response efforts, the growing numbers highlight the challenge of containing the disease at the peak of the rainy season, when contaminated water sources often accelerate transmission.
Read Also: Cholera outbreak kills 37, infects over 3,000 in Borno
Where the outbreak is spreading
According to official data, MMC has recorded 2,404 suspected cases, while Jere has reported 1,214 infections.
Other affected local government areas include Konduga, Mafa, Monguno, Kaga, Bama, Kwaya Kusar, Ngala and Magumeri.
The concentration of cases in densely populated communities has increased pressure on treatment facilities and response teams.
Government expands response
To contain the outbreak, the state government said it has activated emergency response measures, including public awareness campaigns, surveillance activities and the procurement of medical supplies.
Authorities have also designated the Emergency and Infectious Disease Centre in Njimtilo and a treatment camp in Ngarannam with more than 1,000 bed spaces for cholera patients.
The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Health and Human Services, Shetima Muhammad, said Governor Babagana Umara Zulum had approved the distribution of drugs and other medical consumables to treatment centres.
Health officials urges residents to maintain proper hygiene, drink safe water and seek immediate treatment whenever symptoms such as severe diarrhoea or vomiting appear.