Cholera is an endemic and seasonal disease that occurs annually, mostly during the rainy season, and more frequently in areas with poor sanitation.
On Thursday, the World Health Organisation (WHO) announced a spike in cholera in several regions of the world, with almost 195,000 cases and over 1,900 deaths reported in 24 countries since the start of 2024.
As a result, the government and health organizations are working to battle this outbreak.
The Kano State Government has advised residents against drinking rainwater to prevent the spread of cholera as the rainy season has set in.
The advice was contained in a statement issued to newsmen on Saturday by the Head of the Public Relations Unit, Ministry of Health, Ibrahim Abdullahi.
Also, Abdullahi said the advice was necessary because usually, the rainy season comes up with cholera complications, which some states in the country have already fallen victim to.
Cholera Prevention Is Better Than Cure
“Hence, it is necessary to warn and remind people that prevention is better than cure.
“People should always examine what they take, most importantly vegetables, fruits, and drinking water.
In addition, people need to be wary in this regard to protect themselves from contaminated food or water.
“It is important for people to understand that the rainwater at the beginning of the rainy season is unclean.
“If one must use it, it must then be purified using water treatment substances, including boiling and filtering before use.
“This will help greatly to safeguard people against the bondage of cholera.”
Also Read: Cholera Outbreak In Lagos: The Negative Effect On Businesses
In addition, the Commissioner of Health, Dr. Abubakar Yusuf, also urged people to always wash vegetables and fruits thoroughly with clean water before consumption, as they are mostly purchased from markets with little cleanliness.
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