The Plateau State government has confirmed an outbreak of cholera in Bokkos Local Government Area, with five cases verified and three fatalities recorded.
An additional 20 suspected cases are under investigation.
Dr. Nicholas Baamlong, the State Commissioner for Health, disclosed the development on Wednesday in Jos.
He stated that the confirmed cases emerged from the communities of Ngyong, Hurti, and Wurit in Bokkos LGA.
To respond effectively, the state’s Ministry of Health has activated its incident management system to coordinate a multi-sectoral approach.
A state epidemiologist has been appointed as the incident manager to oversee response activities.
According to Dr. Baamlong, the responsibilities of the incident manager include setting up oral rehydration points in affected areas, establishing cholera treatment centers—including units at the college hospital in Bokkos—and leading efforts in surveillance, case management, and public awareness.
He identified poor sanitation, limited access to clean water, and recent population displacement due to attacks in Bokkos as key factors contributing to the outbreak.
The commissioner urged residents to evacuate suspected cases to designated treatment centers promptly.
He also emphasized the importance of maintaining good hygiene practices and reporting symptoms early.
Cholera, he noted, is a severe diarrheal illness caused by consuming food or water contaminated with Vibrio cholerae.
Dr. Baamlong reaffirmed the government’s commitment to safeguarding public health and called on stakeholders and health partners to support the ongoing emergency response.