Thirteen individuals have reportedly lost their lives as a result of an unusual illness that has emerged in several communities in Zamfara State.
The disease primarily affects children and women, according to information gathered from hospitals and government sources.
Across the Maradun, Shinkafi, and Gusau local government areas, a total of 505 cases have been recorded.
The outbreak was initially detected in Tsibiri village in Maradun LGA in February of this year and has since spread to Isa and Zurmi LGAs in Sokoto and Zamfara states.
As of May 12, 2024, there have been four reported deaths in Tsibiri, with 228 cases and 10 patients referred to the Shehu Shagari Disease Control Centre in Gusau for further treatment.
The disease has also affected Galadi village in Shinkafi LGA, where six deaths have been confirmed out of over 100 cases.
Over 60 patients with severe complications have been referred to the Shehu Shagari Disease Control Centre.
The spread of the disease to neighboring areas has raised concerns about containment, prompting a plea for additional medical experts to be deployed to the affected regions by the governments of Sokoto and Zamfara states.
It is crucial for proactive measures to be taken to prevent the escalation of the disease, particularly in Maradun town, which is vulnerable due to its proximity to areas affected by banditry.
