Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) has reported a major cholera outbreak in Borno State, recording thousands of suspected cases and dozens of deaths as health facilities continue to experience severe pressure across multiple local government areas.

According to the organisation, a total of 7,850 suspected cholera cases and 74 deaths have been recorded between 1 May and 7 June 2026, with patients admitted and treated across 14 local government areas and about 50 wards in the state.

The figures were disclosed in a statement by MSF’s Project Medical Coordinator for the cholera response in Borno, Bienfait Tombola, who noted that the outbreak has rapidly escalated since the first suspected case was reported on 1 May.

MSF stated that its treatment centres have managed 7,439 patients during the period, with an average of about 230 admissions daily. The highest surge was recorded on 5 June, when over 500 patients were admitted in a single day.

The organisation explained that health facilities are facing continuous influxes of patients presenting with acute watery diarrhoea and severe dehydration, many of whom travel long distances to access care.

To support the response, MSF, in collaboration with the Borno State Ministry of Health, established a Cholera Treatment Centre in Ngarannam, Maiduguri, on 7 May 2026. The facility has since expanded from 121 to 271 beds, with further expansion plans ongoing.

A 20-bed Cholera Treatment Unit was also set up in the Dalaram area of Maiduguri to manage additional cases.

Beyond clinical care, MSF said it is actively supporting outbreak control measures including training of health workers, health education campaigns, establishment of oral rehydration points, water chlorination, sanitation interventions, surveillance activities, and improved patient referral systems.

The organisation warned that the outbreak is spreading faster than current response capacity, stressing that cholera thrives in environments with poor access to clean water, sanitation, and hygiene services.

MSF also noted planned vaccination efforts by the state government, adding that long-term prevention will depend heavily on sustained investment in water, sanitation, and hygiene infrastructure.

“While treatment remains critical to saving lives, vaccination is expected to play a key role in reducing transmission,” Tombola stated.

MSF reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the Borno State Government and humanitarian partners in controlling the outbreak and reducing avoidable deaths.

Updated Situation Report (as of 9th June 2026);

Recent field updates indicate that cholera cases in Maiduguri and surrounding areas remain high, with the following figures recorded:

- Total suspected cases: 7,850

- Affected LGAs: 15

- Affected wards: 91

- Cases responded to: 1,260

Health workers also reported a significant rise in infections in Mafa and Kaga Local Government Areas.

Response teams on the field have been advised to sustain community sensitisation, especially in schools and vulnerable communities, while maintaining strict personal safety measures during operations.

The outbreak response remains ongoing as health authorities and partners intensify containment efforts across affected areas.