By Solomon Azu
The special Adviser to the governor on Community and Primary Health Care in Cross River state, Dr. Betta Edu has commended the Yakurr Legislative Council for passing two bye-laws following the outbreak of diarrhoea in Ugep Urban which has affected more than 150 children.
The two bye-laws are law against open defecation and that of a compulsory monthly sanitation exercise in the area.
The Special Adviser who made the commendation during a visit to the health centers where most cases of diarrhoea outbreak were being treated lauded the council legislature for its spontaneous response and hoped that the bye-laws will go a long way in inculcating in the communities, the need for proper sanitation.
While emphasizing the importance of personal hygiene, family hygiene and community hygiene, .Dr Edu said the state government has already reacted positively to stop the spread of diarrhoea in the area.
She thanked the State governor, Senator Ben Ayade for his role in the fight against epidemics in the state and called for support and cooperation for all government programs, policies and project aimed at the well being of the people and their standard of living.
Dr. Edu also appealed to families in Yakurr Local Government Area and adjourning communities to see the legislations as in their best interest and promised to carry out vigorous and massive campaigns against unhealthy lifestyles in the state especially at the primary health care level.
While describing the passage of the bye-laws as a step in the right direction, some doctors and health workers emphasized the need for proper enlightenment of the people to enable them appreciate the legislations.