A cholera outbreak in Sokoto State has claimed the lives of at least 25 people, with 1,160 confirmed cases recorded in three local government areas.

The state Commissioner for Health, Dr. Asabe Balarabe, disclosed this during a press briefing on Monday.

She revealed that 15 patients are currently receiving treatment for the disease, which was confirmed through laboratory tests.

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“Out of 1,160 people affected by the outbreak, 25 have succumbed to the disease,” Dr. Balarabe said.

In response, the state government has ramped up efforts to curtail the spread of the infection, which is caused by consuming contaminated water or food.

“The state rescue teams are collaborating with the government to manage and forestall further spread of the dreaded disease,” the commissioner stated.

To address the crisis, the government has ordered the immediate purchase and distribution of essential drugs free of charge to all 18 local government areas of the state.

Dr. Balarabe urged residents to maintain proper hygiene and seek medical attention immediately if they exhibit symptoms such as diarrhea and vomiting.

The outbreak has highlighted the need for improved sanitation and clean water access in affected communities, as health authorities work to contain the spread and prevent further fatalities.

Your body has subtle ways of communicating essential information about your health—and sometimes, one of the simplest clues is the color of your urine.

Urine, which is about 95% water, forms when your kidneys filter out waste and excess water from your blood. Normally ranging from light yellow to amber, it provides insights into your hydration and more.

Changes in urine color, smell, or frequency can serve as early indicators of potential health conditions.

While most color shifts are harmless and temporary, persistent changes could suggest a more significant issue.

“Tracking these signs can be a simple way to monitor hydration and potentially catch health issues early,” says Dr. Jenna Lewis, a nephrologist at Healthline Clinic.

Here’s a guide to what different urine colors might mean for your health:

Clear or Very Light Yellow

This typically shows you’re well-hydrated. While generally a positive sign, consistently clear urine could indicate overhydration, which may lower salt levels in your body.

Light to Medium Yellow

Often considered the “healthy” zone, this shade reflects good hydration without excess water intake.

Dark Yellow to Amber

A darker shade often indicates a need for more water. This is common in the morning or after exercise and can usually be resolved by drinking more fluids.

Orange

Dehydration may lead to orange urine, but other factors can also contribute. High levels of beta-carotene (found in foods like carrots) or certain medications can turn urine orange.

Persistent orange urine might signal liver or bile duct issues, so consult a doctor if it persists.

Pink or Red

While foods like beets or berries can cause pinkish urine, this color can also indicate the presence of blood, possibly signaling kidney problems, infections, or kidney stones. If diet isn’t the cause, seek medical advice.

Brown or Cola-Colored

This shade may suggest dehydration or, in some cases, a more severe issue. Brown urine can indicate liver or kidney problems, or a condition called rhabdomyolysis, where muscle tissue breaks down. Persistent brown urine warrants a visit to the doctor.

Blue or Green

Rarely, certain medications, dyes, or health conditions can produce blue or green urine. While often harmless, persistent blue or green urine should be evaluated by a healthcare provider.

Cloudy or Milky

Cloudy urine may indicate an infection or excess minerals. It could be a sign of a urinary tract infection, kidney stones, or mild dehydration. Sometimes, excess proteins or fats may also cause this cloudiness.

Most changes in urine color are temporary, especially when related to hydration, diet, or harmless compounds. However, experts agree that if unusual colors or symptoms persist, a consultation with a healthcare provider is wise.

“Listening to your body’s signals, even through something as simple as urine color, can offer valuable insights into your overall health,” adds Dr. Lewis.

By keeping an eye on these colors, you can stay on top of hydration and potentially catch health issues early.

In a world where health is wealth, Kola Kuforiji, a Nigerian journalist  who had worked for about two decades with Rhythm FM (Sliverbird Group) reporting business is facing an unthinkable challenge, and needs urgent help.

Kola, a 54-year-old husband and father of two, whose life was turned upside down when he was diagnosed with a drug-resistant, Parkinson’s disease with pronounced difficulty in walking and tremor has been very ill for more than two years and the severity and debilitating nature of his illness has depleted the  finances of his family.

He was initially treated at   Ikorodu General Hospital, Lagos, where a presumptive diagnosis of his medical condition was made.

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He was over a year ago referred to LASUTH, but there has been little improvement in his health.

Medical treatment abroad now offers the best option for his recovery with a recommendation from  Atasehir Medicana International Hospital – Atasehir / Istanbul, Turkey confirming that he will need a Deep Brain Stimulation surgery.

The expected total cost of the Deep Brain Stimulation surgery with traveling expenses is put at  $35,000 (USD) about N57 million at recent exchange rate.

Meanwhile friends of Kola have initiated moves to seek financial support from concerned citizens to help bridge the gap and ensure that he receives the care he needs to overcome this challenge.

A bank account to receive fund for the urgent medical intervention has been opened for donation that will bring hope and healing to Kola and his family.

Name of Account: SOS FOR JOURNALIST KOLA KUFORIJI

Account Number: 1790322317

Bank: Polaris Bank

Kola’s story is one of courage, resilience, and determination, but it’s also a story of urgent need.

He had worked for about two decades with Rhythm FM (Sliverbird Group) covering business at large and had  contributed immensely to deepening understanding of the economy.

Over the years  he has explored his media platform as a strong tool to drive financial inclusion and expanding frontier of knowledge of Nigerians on the activities and stride of the energy, banking and finance sectors at large to national development.

Despite his illness, Kola remains hopeful and determined to overcome.

Use this link to join SOS FOR JOURNALIST KOLA KUFORIJI WhatsApp group https://chat.whatsapp.