Cholera outbreak hits 3 states, claim 42 lives
By Bisola Adeyemo
Following the cholera outbreak in Plateau, Bauchi and Ebonyi states, residents have been advised to be vigilant and cautious about the sources of their water, food and fruits with care to avoid becoming victims.
According to the report from Plateau State, no less than 953 cases of the disease, were recorded, 14 deaths, 910 discharged cases and 29 patients receiving treatment in various health facilities across the state.
Plateau State commissioner for health, Dr Nimkong Lar, made this known on Thursday, at a press briefing at the end of the state executive meeting at Government House, Jos.
He said the disease, which was previously recorded in Jos North local government, later spread to 13 local government areas, requiring concerted efforts to address.
In Bauchi State, Leadership news gathered that the outbreak of cholera has spread to 16 out of the 20 local governments of the state, killing no fewer than 25 people.
“The outbreak of cholera had been reported in the state over the last two months with over 25 incidences in different LGAs.
“Data made available to his committee by the Bauchi State Primary Healthcare Development Agency showed that of the 16 local governments hit by cholera, Burra ward of Ningi local government is the most hit area.”
He explained that “communities lacking potable water are the worst-hit areas by the disease.”
In Ebonyi State, the ministry of health confirmed the death of three persons following an outbreak of cholera in Amachi – Igwebuike village in Agba, Ishielu local government area.
The acting commissioner for health, Dr Richard Nnabu, said the recent outbreak of cholera in the state had been brought under control.
Dr Nnabu stated that the state’s epidemiologist team had visited the area, adding that three deaths were recorded and twelve suspected cases were being handled at Agba General Hospital.
He said that the ministry had commenced sensitization and enlightenment campaigns in the area on how best to prevent the spread of the outbreak.
He urged the people to ensure that they keep their environment clean, ensure regular hygiene, drink safe water and adopt good preservation of food items.