Cholera Surge: Zulum Orders Free Drugs, Medical Supplies To Health Facilities

Amid the rising cholera outbreak, Borno State governor, Prof.Babagana Umara Zulum, has directed the immediate distribution of free cholera drugs, medical consumables and hygiene materials to health facilities to contain cases of acute watery diarrhoea in parts of the state.

The directive came as Borno recorded 37 deaths and over 3,000 cases in seven LGAs, with Maiduguri Metropolitan Council and Jere accounting for most infections.

The permanent secretary, Ministry of Health and Human Services, Dr Shettima Maina Mohammed, disclosed this during the presentation of medical supplies to healthcare facilities treating affected patients in Maiduguri.

According to Mohammed, the drugs and consumables were procured by the state government and supplied to designated treatment centers to ensure that patients receive care free of charge.

“Borno State government has procured and delivered drugs and medical consumables worth millions of Naira to health facilities for the treatment of acute watery diarrhea patients. These drugs and consumables are for the treatment of patients free of charge in the facilities,” he stated.

The permanent secretary commended the Governor of Borno State, Professor Babagana Umara Zulum, for the timely release of funds for the procurement of the medical supplies and his continued commitment to improving healthcare delivery across the state.

“We commend His Excellency, Professor Babagana Umara Zulum, for the timely release of funds for the procurement of these drugs and consumables, as well as his unwavering commitment to providing effective healthcare services to the people of Borno State,” Dr. Mohammed said.

As part of efforts to curb the spread of the disease, the team embarked on an extensive health promotion and sensitisation campaign across communities in Maiduguri Metropolitan Council and Jere Local Government Area.

The delegation paid an advocacy visit to the Shehu of Borno, Alhaji Dr. Abubakar Ibn Umar Garbai El-Kanemi, to seek the support of traditional institutions in mobilising communities and promoting awareness on disease prevention.

The Permanent Secretary, Dr. Shettima Mohammed, urged traditional and community leaders to intensify public enlightenment efforts to encourage residents to maintain good hygiene practices and to seek medical attention when symptoms arise promptly.

Responding, the Shehu of Borno commended Governor Zulum for his swift intervention in addressing the outbreak and pledged the traditional institution’s support in controlling the disease.

“I express my gratitude to His Excellency, Professor Babagana Umara Zulum, for responding promptly to control the outbreak. We will direct traditional leaders across our communities to educate our people on better hygiene practices to prevent the spread of the disease,” the monarch assured.

The team also visited Old Maiduguri, Gamboru, and Shehuri South communities, where residents were educated on preventive measures, including proper sanitation and hygiene practices.

Drugs, consumables, personal protective equipment, and assorted hygiene commodities were delivered to the Emergency and Infectious Disease Hospital in Njimtilo and the Ngarannam Infectious Disease Camp, where patients are currently receiving treatment.