MSF reports over 1,500 cholera cases in Zamfara

Doctors Without Borders/Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) has raised concern over a cholera outbreak in Zamfara State, recording more than 1,500 cases in supported facilities between mid-June and early August.

“This outbreak is unfolding in a context of insecurity, displacement, and limited access to clean water and sanitation—exacerbated by the rainy season,” said David Kizito, MSF’s Medical Coordinator in Nigeria.

“Seasonal outbreaks typically intensify between April and October. Flooding during this period contaminates water sources, accelerating the spread of the disease in areas with poor sanitation.”

Kizito described cholera as potentially deadly if untreated. “It can cause severe diarrhoea and vomiting. If left untreated, it can lead to rapid dehydration and even death within hours.”

He said MSF has scaled up its water, sanitation, and hygiene interventions and supported the Ministry of Health in opening treatment units in Shinkafi, Zurmi and Talata Mafara.

“In the Zurmi CTC, medical teams reported 562 suspected cases—the majority from Yambuki, Kadamusa, and Zurmi town—between June 16 and Aug. 5,” he said. “At Shinkafi General Hospital, medical teams recorded approximately 401 cases… the most affected areas were in Shinkafi North Ward, especially in Alkalawa, Sabon Gari and Kurya.”

Kizito warned of more cases ahead. “Going forward, MSF is worried there will be more cases. As cholera continues to threaten lives across Zamfara, MSF remains committed to working alongside communities, health authorities, and other partners to ensure timely treatment, prevention, and support.”

He stressed the need for urgent vaccination, decentralised oral rehydration points, and enabling all primary healthcare centres to treat mild and moderate cases. “No one should die from a preventable disease,” he said.