The EduMedia Climate Reform on Health Initiative (e-MICH) has called on the Kaduna State Government and emergency response agencies to strengthen flood preparedness as persistent rainfall heightens the risk of flooding across vulnerable communities.
The organisation made the appeal in a statement issued on Thursday and signed by its Communication Officer, Dr Hadiza Abdullahi.
e-MICH urged the state government, local government councils, emergency management agencies, community leaders, civil society organisations and the media to intensify public awareness campaigns on flood prevention and response.
According to the organisation, proactive measures are needed to improve emergency preparedness, upgrade drainage infrastructure and guarantee access to essential healthcare services during and after flooding.
The group identified Abubakar Kigo Road in Kaduna North Local Government Area, Barnawa in Kaduna South Local Government Area, and Karatudu, Narayi and Sabon Tasha in Chikun Local Government Area as communities requiring heightened vigilance.
The statement warned that flooding could contaminate drinking water sources, increasing the risk of cholera, typhoid fever, diarrhoea and other water-borne diseases.
It added that stagnant floodwaters could create breeding grounds for mosquitoes, leading to a surge in malaria cases, while damaged infrastructure and restricted access to healthcare services could expose vulnerable groups to greater health risks.
According to the organisation, pregnant women, nursing mothers, children under the age of five, older persons and people living with disabilities are among those most at risk during flood emergencies.
e-MICH advised residents to clear blocked drainage channels, refrain from dumping refuse into waterways and relocate from flood-prone areas where necessary.
The organisation also urged the public to avoid driving or walking through floodwaters, boil or properly treat drinking water and seek immediate medical attention if they develop symptoms associated with flood-related diseases.
“Residents are encouraged to stay informed through official weather and emergency advisories and to promptly report flooding incidents to the appropriate authorities,” the statement said.
The organisation stressed that timely government intervention, improved community preparedness and collective action by residents remain critical to reducing flood-related losses and safeguarding public health.
source: NAN
