Nigeria is facing a growing cholera threat as the rainy season intensifies, with major outbreaks reported in Borno and Plateau states.
Health authorities say the waterborne disease has killed several people and infected thousands, raising concerns over poor sanitation, limited access to clean water, displacement and weak public health infrastructure.
In Borno State, the outbreak has become one of the most serious in recent years. Data from Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) shows that the state recorded 35 deaths and 3,646 new infections in one week.
Between early May and June 9, Borno reported 74 deaths and 7,850 suspected cases across 12 local government areas. Maiduguri remains the centre of the outbreak, accounting for more than half of reported infections.
IDP Camp Records Hundreds of Cases
The situation has worsened in an Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) camp in Monguno, where 296 suspected cholera cases were recorded within three days.
Health workers said the increasing number of patients arriving at Cholera Treatment Centres is putting pressure on available resources.
Records showed that 48 cases were reported on June 11, 68 on June 12, and 180 on June 13.
Most of the affected patients were women and children from IDP communities. Health officials warned that some people delayed seeking medical care and died at home after attempting to treat symptoms themselves.
Plateau Records Deaths
Plateau State has also confirmed a cholera outbreak in Mangu Local Government Area.
The state Commissioner for Health, Dr Nicholas Baamlong, said five people have died, while 52 suspected cases have been recorded and 11 patients are receiving treatment.
Affected communities include Pushit, Mangu I and Mangu II.
Experts Explain the Cause
Public health experts say the outbreaks are linked to poor water and sanitation systems.
They explained that cholera spreads rapidly where communities depend on unsafe water sources, lack proper toilets and experience overcrowding.
Experts also noted that conflict and displacement in Borno have increased the risk, as many displaced people live in crowded conditions with limited access to clean water and hygiene facilities.
They warned that heavy rainfall and flooding could worsen the situation by contaminating water sources.
States Increase Preparedness
Several northern states are strengthening disease surveillance and emergency response.
Benue State said it has activated rapid response teams, increased public awareness and prepared medical supplies.
Taraba, Bauchi and Kebbi states said they have intensified monitoring and prevention measures despite not recording major outbreaks.
Health officials urged Nigerians to maintain proper hygiene, drink safe water, practise sanitation and seek medical attention quickly when symptoms such as severe diarrhoea and vomiting appear.
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