By Abdullahi Tukur Birnin Kebbi | The Bureau News
Nigeria News Today: The Sokoto State Government has launched an urgent Oral Cholera Vaccination (OCV) campaign after confirmed cholera cases were detected in Dange Shuni and Goronyo Local Government Areas.
The Bureau News reports that the vaccination exercise began immediately after laboratory confirmation and is being supported by UNICEF and other global development partners.
650,000 Residents Targeted in Emergency Intervention
State Immunization Officer, Malam Bakar Garba, told journalists that the campaign aims to vaccinate more than 650,000 individuals aged one year and above to stop further transmission within the affected LGAs and neighbouring communities.
He warned that cholera spreads rapidly through contaminated food and water and emphasized the need for residents to:
- Maintain strict personal and environmental hygiene
- Drink only treated or boiled water
- Seek immediate medical attention once diarrhea or vomiting occurs
High Community Acceptance as Coverage Hits 79% in Four Days
Garba expressed satisfaction with the community response, revealing that the campaign has already achieved an impressive 79% coverage in just four days.
According to him, the quick progress is linked to strong cooperation from traditional and religious leaders across the affected LGAs.
He disclosed that more than 200 residents were vaccinated at the Qur’anic School of Malam Adamu in Kanwuri, Fajaldu Ward, Dange Shuni LGA, while over 1,300 pupils at Sahabi Dange Model Primary School also indicated readiness to receive the cholera vaccine.
UNICEF, WHO, and State Govt Sustain Support
The State Immunization Officer appreciated the continued assistance of WHO and UNICEF, noting that their technical and logistical backing has strengthened the state’s rapid response.
He assured residents that the Sokoto State Government remains fully committed to prioritizing public health and preventing future outbreaks.
