Bauchi Battles Cholera Surge as Death Toll Hits 58, Hundreds Infected

A fresh cholera outbreak has swept through 14 of Bauchi State’s 20 local government areas, leaving at least 58 people dead and 258 others infected.

Speaking at the inauguration of the State Cholera Steering Committee and the State Technical Working Committee, Deputy Governor Auwal Mohammed Jatau expressed concern over the recurring outbreaks, which he said continue to claim lives, disrupt livelihoods, and stretch the state’s healthcare system.

Jatau stressed that cholera is preventable with timely interventions, coordinated responses, and sustained improvements in water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH). He emphasized that the new committees would serve as the central coordinating body for Bauchi’s multi-sectoral response to the epidemic and lead long-term prevention efforts in line with the National Cholera Control Plan and the goals of the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC).

He described the appointment of committee members as a recognition of their expertise and commitment, urging them to ensure effective surveillance, early detection, and rapid response to future outbreaks.