The Zamfara government says it has successfully tackled the recent cholera outbreak that affected numerous communities across the state’s 14 council areas, with no active cases currently.
In a statement by the government, health commissioner Nafisa Maradun announced the development during an After Action Review Meeting on the cholera response, held at the Public Health Emergency Operations Centre in Gusau.
Ms Maradun characterised the breakthrough achievement as proof of the administration’s commitment to transparency, accountability, and people-centred governance.
In a comprehensive overview of the response, Ms Maradun revealed the outbreak’s full scope, stating that they recorded 15,464 cholera cases, with 15,265 patients successfully treated and discharged, while 192 deaths were documented across the state’s 14 LGAs.
The commissioner noted that the state government had developed a robust Pandemic Preparedness Plan to address future public health threats. These threats include cholera, diarrhoea, cerebrospinal meningitis, heavy metal contamination and other diseases of public health importance.
She added that appreciation letters had been issued to all supporting partners in recognition of their vital contributions and commitment.
The coordinator of the World Health Organisation in Zamfara, Raji Mukhtar, highlighted the critical importance of timely planning, proper coordination according to IMS, and data reporting.
Mr Mukhtar cited key lessons learned, noting that initial challenges in Zurmi and Anka created a vulnerability to misinformation, particularly after media reports from Gummi that raised public anxiety.
He commended the subsequent harmonisation of partner support and the activation of the Incident Management System, which established a unified command and ensured an effective response.
He specifically praised the Zamfara Government for demonstrating exemplary political will by dedicating necessary resources at every stage of the response. He stressed the need for improved, coordinated data reporting at the local government level, particularly through Disease Surveillance and Notification Officers, to enhance surveillance and early detection efforts.
The review meeting was attended by major health partners, including WHO, UNICEF, AFENET, Solidarity Support, IRC, Red Cross, and Médecins Sans Frontières. Other key and relevant government MDAs included Ruwatsan, PHCB, Humanitarian, ZESA, the ministries of information and environment.
The session reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to strengthening public health systems and improving citizens’ quality of life.
(NAN)