The Kano State Government has issued a warning to residents against consuming rainwater as a preventative measure against cholera, with the onset of the rainy season.
This advisory was released in a statement on Saturday by Ibrahim Abdullahi, Head of the Public Relations Unit at the Ministry of Health.
Abdullahi emphasized the importance of this warning, noting that the rainy season often brings with it cholera outbreaks, which have already affected several states in Nigeria.
“Hence, it is necessary to warn and remind the people that prevention is better than cure. People should always examine what they take, most importantly vegetables, fruits, and drinking water. People need to be wary in this regard to protect themselves from contaminated food or water,” he stated.
He further explained the risks associated with the initial rains of the season, describing the rainwater as unclean.
“If one must use it, it must then be purified using water treatment substances, including boiling and filtering before use. This will help greatly to safeguard people against the bondage of cholera,” he added.
In addition to Abdullahi’s advice, the Commissioner of Health, Dr. Abubakar Yusuf, urged residents to thoroughly wash vegetables and fruits with clean water before consumption, as these items are often sold in markets with minimal cleanliness.
He assured that Governor Abba Yusuf’s administration remains committed to prioritizing the healthcare needs of Kano’s residents.
Labaran also encouraged people to promptly seek medical attention at the nearest health facility if they fall ill, while praying for the safety of Kano state and its residents against cholera and other diseases.
Cholera, a seasonal and endemic disease, typically emerges during the rainy season and is prevalent in areas with poor sanitation.
Recently, the World Health Organization reported a surge in cholera cases globally, with nearly 195,000 cases and over 1,900 deaths recorded in 24 countries since the beginning of 2024.
