Photo Illustration: Cholera Vaccine 

The Delta State Government has reported seven deaths linked to a cholera outbreak within the state.

Dr. Joseph Onojaeme, the State Commissioner for Health, disclosed the update on Tuesday during a briefing in Asaba, the state capital.

The first outbreak began in mid-February, with 138 cases recorded in Warri South West, and 11 suspected cases in Bomadi and one in Oshimili South.

The state government has taken control measures, including advocacy, education, and provision of water purification tablets.

The disease is common among villages situated along water banks, with high-risk local government areas including Warri South West, Warri North, Warri South, Ughelli North, Ughelli South, Patani, Bomadi, and Burutu.

He stated, “The initial outbreak occurred in mid-February. Since then, the state has reported approximately 138 cases in Warri South West, where the outbreak originated. In the third wave, there were 11 suspected cases in Bomadi and one in Oshimili South. Unfortunately, seven people, predominantly children, have lost their lives to this outbreak.

“We have been able to control the disease in Delta State. The Disease Surveillance and Monitoring officers have conducted significant advocacy and educated people about the causes of the disease.”

According to him, “The disease is mainly linked to inadequate sanitary conditions. We recommend practising regular handwashing and avoiding contaminated water.”

He explained that the Ministry of Health has distributed purification tablets to address water contamination.

“In Warri South West, where the issue first emerged, we’ve recorded just 20 suspected cases over the past six weeks. The majority of these cases have been successfully treated, and the situation is now largely under control.”

Onojaeme stressed that advocacy is a continuous effort, with risk factors including poor sanitary conditions and decreased stomach acid.

Cholera can incubate for up to 12 days, meaning individuals who have not yet exhibited symptoms can still spread the disease through feces and urine to those nearby.

He observed that the ratio of male to female casualties was 3:1, with these casualties occurring during the initial outbreak. The second and third outbreaks are now being managed effectively by the State Ministry of Health.

For Advert, Event Coverage, Story/Article Publication, PR & Other Media Services
Contact Us On: WhatsApp
Send Email To: citizennewsng@gmail.com
Visit Citizen NewsNG To Read More Latest And Interesting News