According to reports from Reuters and Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF), cholera has been spreading in northeastern Borno State since early last month, with 7,850 infections and at least 74 deaths reported as of June 7. MSF noted that these figures are based on local health authority data, indicating a rapid increase in cases.
MSF has established a cholera treatment center in Maiduguri, the capital of Borno State, and is collaborating with health authorities. The center is treating an average of over 180 patients daily, but on June 5, it received 500 patients in just one day.
Cholera is caused by infection with the Vibrio cholerae bacterium, typically contracted through contaminated water or food. Symptoms include diarrhea and vomiting, with most cases being mild; however, severe cases can lead to shock and death.
In Nigeria, inadequate sanitation facilities and stagnant water during the rainy season frequently lead to waterborne diseases like cholera. The Nigeria Center for Disease Control reported that in 2021, the country experienced its worst cholera outbreak in decades, with over 110,000 infections and more than 3,600 deaths. The northeastern region has particularly poor health and sanitation conditions, exacerbated by attacks from extremist groups like Boko Haram since 2009, which have targeted both government forces and civilians.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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