ASSESSING HOUSEHOLD AND COMMUNITY LEVEL RISK FACTORS FOR CHOLERA OUTBREAKS IN KATSINA STATE, NIGERIA

Abstract This study investigated factors contributing to cholera outbreaks in Katsina State, Nigeria. The study employed a community-based cross-sectional design and surveyed 108 households across five urban and rural communities using a structured questionnaire administered through the Kobocollect digital platform. The data was analyzed descriptively and inferentially (Chi-square tests) in SPSS to examine associations between cholera occurrence and demographic, socioeconomic, water, sanitation, and household characteristics.  Key findings showed that children and adolescents (6–17 years) accounted for 54.2% of cholera cases, demonstrating their heightened vulnerability. Larger-sized households (21+ persons) experienced significantly higher cholera incidents (55.6–60%) compared to smaller-sized households (13.2%), revealing the impact of overcrowding. Although households accessed improved water sources, 41.7% of those using pipe-borne water reported cholera cases, indicating contamination risks. However, statistical analysis found no significant association between water source type and cholera incidence (p = 0.255). Spatial analysis identified disparities, with BCG Village recording the highest cholera incidents (50%) and Katoge reporting no cases, emphasizing the role of localized environmental and infrastructural differences. While most households expressed willingness to improve water and sanitation, income level showed only marginal association with willingness (p = 0.053). The study concluded that multiple factors influenced cholera risk, including age, household size, and inconsistent water infrastructure maintenance. Study recommended targeted hygiene education for children and adolescents, household-level interventions to reduce overcrowding, and improved maintenance of water infrastructure.