Oluwafunbi Bello 
BORNO, Nigeria – A worsening cholera outbreak has claimed at least 37 lives and infected more than 3,000 people across Borno State within a month, health authorities have warned.
The Executive Secretary of the Borno State Contributory Healthcare Management Agency, Saleh Kaza, disclosed the figures on Saturday, describing the situation as a serious public health emergency.
The outbreak, first reported on 1 May and confirmed three days later, has spread across seven local government areas, affecting 36 wards and more than 138 communities.
According to Kaza, Maiduguri Metropolitan Council accounts for over 2,000 cases, while neighbouring Jere Local Government Area has recorded more than 1,000 infections.
“Following the first incident report on May 1 and confirmation on May 4, it is confirmed that we are facing a serious health crisis as a devastating cholera outbreak has struck Borno,” he said.
Health officials reported more than 100 new infections within the last 24 hours, with the disease already placing significant pressure on healthcare facilities.
Kaza attributed the rapid spread to poor hygiene practices, open defecation and improper waste disposal, particularly during the ongoing rainy season.
“Please ensure proper waste disposal to prevent contamination. With the rainy season upon us, open waste from open defecation and refuse may be washed back into our living areas, thereby spreading the disease,” he warned.
The agency said cholera vaccination campaigns are being planned for affected communities, while residents have been advised to maintain proper hygiene, consume safe food and water, and seek medical attention immediately if symptoms develop.
Kaza commended the support of the Borno State Ministry of Health, the World Health Organization, UNICEF and Médecins Sans Frontières in combating the outbreak.
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Korede Abdullah 
