By Abdullahi Alhassan, Kaduna The EduMedia Climate Reform on Health Initiative, e-MICH, has called for urgent flood preparedness...
The EduMedia Climate Reform on Health Initiative, e-MICH, has called for urgent flood preparedness and public health precautions in Kaduna State following persistent rainfall and forecasts of continued heavy downpours.
In a press statement signed by its Communication Officer, Dr. Hadiza Abdullahi, e-MICH expressed deep concern over the heightened risk of flooding in vulnerable communities across the state.
The organisation specifically urged residents of Abubakar Kigo Road in Kaduna North LGA; Barnawa in Kaduna South LGA; and Karatudu, Narayi and Sabon Tasha in Chikun LGA and other flood-prone areas to remain vigilant and take immediate precautionary measures to safeguard lives and property.
e-MICH warned that flooding poses both humanitarian and major public health threats. According to the group, floodwaters often contaminate drinking water sources, increasing the risk of cholera, typhoid fever, diarrhoea and other water-borne diseases. Stagnant water also creates breeding sites for mosquitoes, leading to a rise in malaria cases.
The organisation further noted that floods can disrupt access to healthcare, especially for pregnant women, nursing mothers, children under five, older persons and persons living with disabilities.
"To reduce risks, e-MICH advised residents to avoid dumping refuse in drainage channels, clear blocked drains, relocate from high-risk areas where necessary, and avoid walking or driving through floodwaters.
"It also urged households to ensure drinking water is properly treated or boiled, and to seek immediate medical attention for symptoms such as diarrhoea or persistent fever.
The initiative called on the Kaduna State Government, emergency management agencies, local government councils, community leaders, CSOs and the media to intensify flood awareness campaigns, strengthen emergency preparedness, improve drainage infrastructure, and ensure uninterrupted access to essential healthcare in vulnerable communities.
e-MICH further encouraged residents to stay informed through official weather and emergency advisories and to promptly report flooding incidents to relevant authorities, stressing that collective preparedness and timely action remain key to reducing the devastating impact of floods on public health.
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