MSF warns of more deaths from cholera outbreak in Zamfara
The international medical humanitarian group, Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF), says the rise of cholera outbreak in Zamfara State is disturbing.
It warned of risks to lose more lives if no urgent action is taken.
According to MSF mid-June to early August 2025 report over 1,500 suspected cholera cases in three Ministry of Health (MoH) facilities it supports. Other aid groups and the MoH have also reported high numbers in different parts of the state.
“This outbreak is unfolding in a context of insecurity, displacement, and limited access to clean water and sanitation—all made worse by the rainy season,” said Dr. David Kizito, MSF’s medical coordinator in Nigeria.
Cholera is common in Nigeria, especially between April and October when flooding contaminates water sources. The disease causes severe diarrhoea and vomiting and can kill within hours if not treated.
Hotspot areas like Shinkafi, Zurmi, and Talata Mafara—where safe drinking water is scarce—are getting special attention.
In Zurmi, the Cholera Treatment Centre at the General Hospital treated 562 suspected cases between June 16 and August 5.
Shinkafi General Hospital recorded about 401 cases between July 11 and August 5, including 58 from Isa LGA in Sokoto State.
Talata Mafara General Hospital’s Cholera Treatment Unit handled over 600 cases between July 1 and August 8, with Kayaye recording the highest number.
Dr. Ahmad Bilal, MSF’s head of mission in Nigeria, advised residents to boil water before drinking, wash hands often, eat freshly cooked food, avoid open defecation, and keep vaccinations up to date.
“As cholera continues to threaten lives across Zamfara, MSF remains committed to working with communities, health authorities, and other partners to ensure timely treatment and prevention,” Dr. Kizito added.
He also called for setting up oral rehydration points in more locations, equipping all primary health centres to treat mild cases, and starting urgent cholera vaccination campaigns.
“No one should die from a preventable disease,” he said.
MSF warns of more deaths from cholera outbreak in Zamfara
