The Niger State Commissioner for Secondary and Tertiary Health, Bello Tukur, has reported a significant increase in cholera cases within the state.
As of today, there have been 289 confirmed cases, resulting in 17 fatalities and the hospitalization of nine individuals across eleven local government areas.
Tukur made this announcement during a recent appearance before the Niger State House of Assembly, where he and the Minister of Primary Health were summoned to address the nation’s rising cholera epidemic.
The Commissioner outlined the state’s response plan, highlighting the formation of a dedicated committee to oversee the outbreak.
He emphasized the importance of coordinated efforts across primary, secondary, and tertiary healthcare sectors to effectively manage the situation. Furthermore, Tukur noted that the state is utilizing technical expertise and strategic planning to bolster its epidemic preparedness.
Pharmacist Umar Nasiru, Chairman of the House Standing Committee on Primary and Secondary Health and representative of Paikoro Constituency, urged the public to adopt preventative measures such as avoiding open defecation, properly disposing of waste, and boiling water from unknown sources.
He also stressed the importance of seeking professional medical advice for diarrheal symptoms rather than self-medicating.
