September 16, (THEWILL) – The Nigerian Medical Association (NMA), on Monday, called on the government and other critical stakeholders to immediately activate measures that would forestall public health crisis following the devastating flood that ravaged Maiduguri last week.
Chairman of the Borno State Council, Dr. Yakubu Mohammed El-Yakub, who stated this in a statement, sympathised with the displaced persons, while emphasising the need for proper hygiene and appropriate latrines to prevent outbreaks of diseases like cholera.
El-Yakub raised concern over reports received from various IDP camps within Maiduguri Metropolitan Council that might trigger a public health crisis in the coming days.
“The NMA Borno State Branch is calling on the Borno State Government to take immediate action in addressing the public health crisis that may arise as an aftermath of the flood.
“With thousands of people displaced, living in overcrowded conditions, and lacking access to clean water and sanitation facilities, there is a heightened risk of disease outbreaks, including cholera, malaria, and other waterborne and vector-borne diseases.
“The government’s swift intervention is crucial in deploying more healthcare resources, strengthening disease surveillance, and ensuring that adequate preventive measures are in place to protect the health and well-being of the vulnerable populations in the affected areas,” he said.
El-Yakub pledged the association’s full support as part of their corporate social responsibility and urged all members to be prepared to provide health services at the IDP camps as well as in their neighbourhoods.
I am Ladi Dapson, a general writer with thewill. I cover Borno and Yobe states respectively.
I based Maiduguri, Borno State Capital.
I can be reached via [email protected].
Very high and kind regards!
