A’Ibom confirms cholera outbreak, begins campaigns

 

Cholera Outbreak Reported in Akwa Ibom’s Eastern Obolo Community

The Akwa Ibom State Government has confirmed a cholera outbreak in the fishing community of Emeroke, located in the Eastern Obolo Local Government Area. The reported cases have been accompanied by symptoms such as diarrhea and vomiting.

In a statement issued in Uyo on Sunday, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Health, Dr. Patrick Essiet, disclosed that the state epidemiologist has been deployed to the affected community to conduct awareness campaigns on preventing further spread of the disease.

Health officials have also visited a secondary health facility in the state to assess the number of confirmed cases and ensure appropriate medical response.

Government’s Preventive Measures

As part of immediate interventions, the Ministry of Health has issued precautionary guidelines for residents:

• Proper handwashing should be practiced, particularly after using the toilet.

• Drinking water must be boiled before consumption.

• Individuals experiencing diarrhea or vomiting should seek urgent medical attention at the nearest health facility.

Dr. Essiet also emphasized the importance of maintaining sanitary conditions, urging community leaders to enforce the state government’s ban on open defecation to curb the spread of the disease.

Ongoing Response Efforts

The state government is currently mobilizing supplies to the affected community as a short-term measure while working on a long-term solution to prevent future outbreaks.

Residents have been encouraged to report suspected cholera cases to the Director of Public Health at the Ministry of Health for prompt action.