By Ogar Monday
The Cross River Government has intervened following reports of a suspected cholera outbreak in Ekureku, Abi Local Government Area in the Central Senatorial District of the State.
Reports from the community have it that the suspected cholera outbreak has claimed some lives but about 30 people are currently receiving treatments in various health facilities within Abi and neighboring Yakurr Local Government Area of the State.
According to the State Primary Healthcare Development Agency, “The incident occurred with an index case on Thursday, December 15th, 2022, and was said to have been escalated after the consumption of contaminated water from the village drinking source.”
Addressing newsmen after visiting the Community and the health facilities where those affected are recuperating, the Director General of the State Primary Healthcare Development Agency, Dr. Janet Ekpenyong regretted the unfortunate incident which she said would have been averted if simple protocols were taken into consideration.
According to her, before her visit, the State Government had deployed a response team with representatives from the World Health Organization, the Nigerian Red Cross Society, and WASH Program.
She said, “The State Government finds this incident quite unfortunate and sympathizes with families who have been affected. Because of how fast the transmission rate of cholera is, we have recorded deaths with many other victims hospitalized in various government-owned facilities and graciously, responding to treatments.
“We are applying every possible means to halt transmission as we have gone across the community sensitizing the people on the possible ways of managing the disease as well as speaking to the community leaders to support the State Government by lending their voices to ensure their communities adhere to hygiene protocols to end cholera and other related illnesses.”
She also added that samples had been taken and sent for confirmation, while treatments of the water source and fumigation were on course.
The team also distributed drugs, consumables, and other commodities needed for their response.
Cholera can be caused by contaminated water or food source and as such everyone is advised to maintain good personal hygiene, boil water and food before consumption, regularly wash hands to kill germs, and always report cases of suspected incidences early to the health experts.
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