A cholera outbreak in Yola North Local Government Area of Adamawa State has claimed seven lives, with 71 others hospitalised. The outbreak, caused by recent flooding that contaminated the local water supply, was confirmed by the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) in a statement posted on its X.com page on Tuesday.
NEMA reported that around 100 additional people are currently under monitoring and observation due to the outbreak.
The agency’s statement read: “NEMA has responded to a suspected cholera outbreak in Yola North LGA, affecting the communities of Alkalawa, Doubeli, Rumde, and Gwadabawa. As of September 16, 2024, 71 patients have been hospitalised, with over 100 under observation, and seven confirmed deaths. The outbreak is linked to a recent flood that contaminated the main drinking water source. Due to overcrowding at the isolation center, some patients are being transferred to the Federal Medical Centre.”
In response, NEMA has partnered with the Adamawa State government to implement emergency measures aimed at curbing the spread of the disease. These measures include chlorinating toilets, treating water supplies, and conducting community education to raise awareness about cholera prevention.
“NEMA, in collaboration with the Adamawa State government, has undertaken steps to chlorinate water sources and provide treatment, along with community education to help mitigate the outbreak. We are closely monitoring the situation and working with stakeholders for timely intervention,” the statement concluded.
Earlier this year, on June 24, the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) reported 1,528 suspected cholera cases and 53 deaths across 31 states and 107 Local Government Areas. In response to the ongoing cholera crisis, NCDC Director General, Dr. Jide Idris, announced that the Federal Government had activated the National Emergency Operation Centre to address the outbreak.
