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Cholera Outbreak Control
By Chuks Peter, DELTA
Delta State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Joseph Onojaeme, announced on Tuesday that the state government has successfully controlled the cholera outbreak that recently affected the state.
Speaking in Asaba, Dr. Onojaeme provided an update on the state’s efforts to manage the disease, noting that cholera is a national concern, with three outbreaks reported in the country this year.
Since the onset of the epidemic in February, Delta State has recorded 138 cases of cholera, resulting in seven deaths.
Most cases occurred among young children. The first outbreak was the deadliest, accounting for all seven fatalities, while the subsequent two outbreaks did not result in any deaths.
During the briefing, Dr. Onojaeme, accompanied by State Commissioner for Information,
Dr. Ifeanyi Osuoza and Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Sir Festus Ahon.
Onojaeme outlined the symptoms of cholera, including the passage of watery stool, dehydration, and electrolyte imbalance.
He explained that the first outbreak began in Warri South-West, followed by seven cases in Bomadi and one in Oshimili South during the second and third outbreaks.
“We have effectively curtailed the cholera outbreak in Delta State,” Dr. Onojaeme stated.
“Our disease surveillance and notification officers have conducted extensive advocacy to educate the public about the causes of cholera, which is primarily linked to poor sanitation.
We have emphasised the importance of proper hand washing and avoiding contaminated water. Additionally, we have distributed tablets to purify water in affected areas.”
Dr. Onojaeme reported that the situation in Warri South-West, where the outbreak started, is now stable.
Over the past six weeks, only 20 suspected cases have been identified, and most have been treated successfully.
He stressed the importance of maintaining hygiene, especially for those living in high-risk areas.
Cholera, with an incubation period of up to 12 days, can spread through feces and urine, making close contact with an infected person a significant risk factor.
The commissioner highlighted the importance of hygiene in preventing the spread of the disease, particularly in villages along the water banks.
Delta State’s high-risk local government areas include Warri South, Warri South-West, Warri North, Ughelli North, Ughelli South, Patani, Bomadi, and Burutu.
Onojaeme assured the public that the Ministry of Health has contained the outbreak within these areas.
The Ministry’s Epidemiology Unit continues to conduct surveillance and monitor the situation closely, ensuring that the outbreak remains under control
