Cholera Outbreak: Delta Confirms Seven Deaths

Cholera Outbreak: Delta Confirms Seven Deaths

The Delta State Government has confirmed the tragic deaths of seven individuals following a cholera outbreak in the region. This information was disclosed by the State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Joseph Onojaeme, during a press briefing in Asaba, the state capital.

Dr. Onojaeme detailed the timeline and spread of the outbreak, which first emerged in mid-February. “The state has recorded approximately 138 cases in Warri South West, which is where it started,” he said. “During the third outbreak, we saw 11 suspected cases in Bomadi and one in Oshimili South. Unfortunately, seven people, predominantly children, have lost their lives.”

The Health Commissioner emphasized that the state has made significant strides in controlling the disease. “Our Disease Surveillance and Monitoring officers have been actively involved in advocacy efforts and educating the public about the causes of cholera,” he explained. “Cholera is primarily associated with poor sanitary conditions. We have been advising people on the importance of hand washing and avoiding contaminated water.”

To combat the spread of cholera, the Ministry of Health has distributed water purification tablets. “Since the initial outbreak in Warri South West, we have only reported 20 suspected cases in the past six weeks,” Dr. Onojaeme noted. “Most of these cases have been treated, and we can confidently say that the situation is largely under control.”

Dr. Onojaeme stressed that ongoing advocacy and public education are crucial in preventing further outbreaks. “The risk factors for cholera include poor sanitary conditions and reduced stomach acid,” he said. “Cholera has an incubation period of up to 12 days, which means that individuals who are asymptomatic can still spread the disease through feces and urine to others nearby.”

The Commissioner provided additional insights into the demographics affected by the outbreak. “The male-to-female ratio of the casualties was 3:1,” he said. “These deaths were recorded during the first outbreak, while the second and third outbreaks are being effectively managed by the State Ministry of Health.”

Dr. Onojaeme also highlighted the vulnerability of certain areas to cholera, particularly villages situated along water banks. He listed the high-risk local government areas as Warri South West, Warri North, Warri South, Ughelli North, Ughelli South, Patani, Bomadi, and Burutu.

The efforts to curb the outbreak have included a combination of public health measures and medical interventions. “We are working tirelessly to ensure that we prevent future outbreaks and protect the health of our citizens,” Dr. Onojaeme assured. “Our focus is on improving sanitary conditions and ensuring that people have access to clean water.”

In conclusion, while the cholera outbreak in Delta State has resulted in tragic losses, the state’s health authorities are making concerted efforts to control the spread of the disease and prevent further casualties. Ongoing education, improved sanitation, and access to clean water remain the cornerstones of their strategy to combat cholera and protect public health.