319 more cases as Cholera Deaths reach 20 in Borno
The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control announced that not less than 319 suspected cases of cholera and 20 deaths had been reported in Borno state, Nigeria. The disease had affected six areas in Borno state, the worst being Muna Garage Internally Displaced Persons’ Camp, Maiduguri, the capital of the state.
Dr Chikwe Ihekweazu, the National Coordinator and Chief Executive of the NCDC confirmed the figure and said that support had been mobilised from the health ministry to thwart the spread of the disease.
319 cases and 20 deaths had been reported in the state, dating from December 2016.
Cholera is a disease that results in acute watery diarrhoea in children and adults. It is commonly spread by drinking or eating contaminated water or food. It is predominant in overcrowded places with unhygienic sanitation practices. In severe cases, cholera is characterised by sudden acute watery diarrhoea that can result in death as a result of dehydration. Nausea, vomiting and weakness are other symptoms.
The NCDC urged all states as well as members of the public to report all cases of cholera and all persons with these signs and symptoms immediately to prevent a widespread outbreak.
