The Delta State Government has reported seven fatalities following a cholera outbreak in the region.
According to The PUNCH, the State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Joseph Onojaeme, made this known during an update in Asaba, the state capital, on Tuesday.
Dr. Onojaeme explained that the first outbreak occurred in mid-February, primarily affecting Warri South West, which saw about 138 cases.
Subsequently, 11 suspected cases were recorded in Bomadi and one in Oshimili South. Seven individuals, mostly children, have died as a result of the outbreak.
“The disease has largely been controlled in Delta State,” said Dr. Onojaeme. “Our Disease Surveillance and Monitoring officers have engaged in significant advocacy efforts, educating the public about the causes and prevention of cholera, which is mainly linked to poor sanitary conditions. We have emphasized the importance of hand washing and avoiding contaminated water.”
He also mentioned that the Ministry of Health has distributed tablets to purify water sources.
In Warri South West, where the outbreak began, only 20 suspected cases have been reported in the past six weeks. Most patients have been treated, and the situation is under control.
Dr. Onojaeme highlighted that advocacy efforts are ongoing, noting that risk factors include poor sanitation and reduced stomach acid.
Cholera can incubate for up to 12 days, during which time asymptomatic individuals can spread the disease through feces and urine.
The Commissioner pointed out that the male-to-female ratio of the casualties was 3:1, with all deaths occurring during the initial outbreak.
The subsequent outbreaks are being managed effectively by the State Ministry of Health.
Dr. Onojaeme identified high-risk areas, particularly villages along water banks, and listed Warri South West, Warri North, Warri South, Ughelli North, Ughelli South, Patani, Bomadi, and Burutu as the most affected local government areas.
