From Muhammad Ahmadu Saka, in Bauchi
The Bauchi State Government has recorded 58 fatalities, and detected 258 new cases of cholera, which was reported in 14 out of the 20 Local Government Areas of the State.
The State Deputy Governo,r Alhaji Muhammadu Auwak Jatau said this when he inaugurated the State Cholera Steering, Technical Committees.
Jatau urged the members of the committees to approach the assigned responsibilities with passion, professionalism and urgency.
The Deputy Governor who is the Chairman of the Committee lamented that the recurrent outbreaks of Cholera have continued to claim lives, disrupt livelihoods and place enormous strain on the state’s health system.
He said that Cholera remains one of the major public health threats despite the state government’s and partners efforts to tackle the disease,
Jatau explained that the establishment of the Cholera Steering, Technical Committees is not only timely, but essential in achieving the desired objectives.
“These outbreaks are often preventable with timely interventions, coordinated responses, and sustained improvements in water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH)”
“It is in this regard that the these Committee is expected to serve as the Central Co-ordinating bodies to lead Bauchi State’s Multi-Sectoral Response to cholera outbreaks and to drive long-term prevention strategies in alignment with the National Cholera Control Plan and the broader goals of the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC)”he said
Deputy Governor told the members of the Committees that their nomination is a recognition of their expertise, dedication, and strategic importance to the success of the assignment and expressed optimism that they would ensure effective surveillance, early detection, and rapid response to outbreaks.
The Deputy Governor assured health partners of the readiness of Governor Bala Mohammed towards providing the necessary support and the enabling environment for effective implementation of programmes.
Also Speaking, the State Team Lead WaterAid, Mr Mashat Mallo said that WaterAid is working with the state government and patners to ensure that outbreaks of Cholerais reduced to the barest minimum in the state, adding that the inauguration of the Committees will further accelerate efforts in preventing further outbreaks of Cholera in the state.
He called on the state government to improve access to clean water and hygiene services, pointing out that such measures will improve the health of the people and prevent infectious diseases .
On his part, the Commissioner of Health, Dr Sani Mohammed Dambam who is the Chairman of the technical committee promised to work collectively towards achieving their mandate.
“We are committed to a coordinated and sustained response to prevent future cholera outbreaks and protect the health of our citizens.The inauguration marks a renewed push by the Bauchi State Government to strengthen its public health response framework” he said.
