An outbreak of cholera has been reported in Nigeria's northwest Kano State, spreading to 11 local councils in the area, a local official said on Friday.

Bello Abubakar of the state ministry of health, who confirmed the outbreak, advised the people of the state to take preventive measure to check the spread of the deadly disease.

"The outbreak of the disease has been reported in 11 local government areas, hence the need for people to take necessary preventive measures," Abubakar told newsmen.

He stressed the need for the people to take only clean and safe drinking water.

"People should use safe water to brush their teeth, as well as to wash and prepare their food. They should also ensure that they prepare their food clean areas and wash their kitchen wares with soap and clean water," Abubakar said.

He also advised the people to boil and treat their water with a chlorine product or household bleach.

He declined to say if there were casualties yet.

Cholera is an acute intestinal infection that causes severe vomiting and diarrhea, which can lead to serious dehydration and prove fatal if not properly treated.