Cholera Outbreak in Zamfara Kills Eight, Infects Over 200 Across 11 Communities

Cholera Outbreak in Zamfara Kills Eight, Infects Over 200 Across 11 Communities

A cholera outbreak has hit Bukkuyum Local Government Area of Zamfara State, leaving at least eight people dead and infecting more than 200 residents across 11 rural communities. The outbreak, which started earlier this week, has quickly spread due to poor access to clean water, inadequate healthcare facilities, and insecurity in the region.

According to reports, the hardest-hit villages include Nasarawa-Burkullu, Gurusu, Adabka, Tunga Mallam, and Masama, where dozens of people are battling severe diarrhea and dehydration. Many of the victims are being treated in their homes because healthcare centers are either too far away or lack the necessary medical supplies.

A member representing Bukkuyum in the Zamfara State House of Assembly, Hon. Sulaiman Abubakar Gumi, confirmed the fatalities and raised alarm over the worsening situation. He disclosed that emergency response teams are yet to be fully mobilized, stressing that the lives of hundreds more could be at risk if urgent measures are not taken.

 “The outbreak is overwhelming our rural communities. People are dying because they cannot reach hospitals in time, and many health centers lack adequate drugs and rehydration kits. We are calling on the state government, federal authorities, and NGOs to immediately intervene with emergency cholera treatment centers, clean water supply, and health workers,” Gumi said.

Health experts warn that the outbreak could escalate further if not properly contained, as Zamfara has a history of waterborne disease outbreaks worsened by poor sanitation and displacement caused by banditry. The region has also been struggling with limited access to potable water, forcing residents to rely on contaminated streams and wells.

Cholera, an acute diarrheal infection caused by ingesting food or water contaminated with Vibrio cholerae bacteria, can kill within hours if untreated. The World Health Organization (WHO) has consistently advised communities to prioritize hygiene, safe water practices, and rapid medical attention to curb fatalities.

The Zamfara State Ministry of Health is expected to release an official response plan, while humanitarian agencies are being urged to deploy resources immediately.

As Nigeria continues to battle recurring cholera outbreaks in different states, public health advocates stress that investment in water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) infrastructure is the long-term solution to preventing future crises.