One person has died from a suspected cholera case in Bauchi State.
This is even as 50 suspected cholera cases were recorded across three local government areas in Bauchi State since January.
This was disclosed by the chairman of the Bauchi State Primary Health Care Development Board on Monday while speaking to journalists after the 2024 MNCH Week launch on Monday.
The affected LGAs, according to him, were Bauchi, Giade, and Toro.
Dr Mohammed stated: “As of today, Monday, 1st July, we have 50 suspected cases from three LGAs: Bauchi, Giade, and Toro.
“It started with 30 cases in Giade. A few days ago, we recorded four suspected cases in Bauchi LGA. Out of this number, we have one death from the suspected cases.
“Health workers are working round the clock to ensure that all suspected cases are treated. We have taken samples to the National Centre for Disease Control, NCDC, and are awaiting results to determine the status of the cases.”
Dr Mohammed added that the state is prepared to prevent an outbreak, with international development partners including UNICEF, WHO, and other relevant agencies cooperating with the state.
He noted that testing at the NCDC takes time, as suspected cases are sent in batches of 100 and must be thoroughly scrutinised.
“Some months ago, there was a reported case of gastroenteritis in Ningi when about 100 students had food poisoning. We promptly responded and ensured that it was treated,” he added.
He assured that the board is working with agencies like BASEPA to clear waterways, ensuring rainwater and other wastewater can flow freely. Additionally, education and enlightenment campaigns are ongoing to ensure the population maintains the necessary hygiene standards to prevent cholera.