From Musa Muhammad Kutama, Calabar
A suspected cholera outbreak has claimed ten lives in Emeroke community, located in Eastern Obolo Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State. Health officials have confirmed the outbreak, with symptoms such as diarrhoea and vomiting being reported.
However, they have refrained from disclosing the exact number of fatalities and affected persons.
Authorities have commenced an investigation into the outbreak. Health officials are visiting secondary health facilities across the state to determine the extent of the disease’s spread.
Dr. Patrick Essiet, the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Health, confirmed the outbreak to reporters, stating that the ministry’s epidemiologist has been dispatched to the community to conduct enlightenment campaigns aimed at curbing the spread.
“As an immediate intervention, the Ministry of Health advises proper handwashing, particularly after defecation, and boiling drinking water before consumption. Individuals experiencing symptoms of diarrhoea or vomiting should seek immediate treatment at the nearest health facility,” Dr. Essiet stated.
The ministry also reminded community leaders to enforce the state government’s ban on open defecation and announced plans to mobilize supplies to the affected community as a short-term measure.
The public is urged to report suspected cholera cases to the state’s director of public health for swift action.
Efforts are underway to mitigate the outbreak while the state government develops a long-term solution to prevent future occurrences.