Cholera outbreak hits Akwa Ibom community

Akwa Ibom State has announced a few cases of cholera outbreak with symptoms of diarrhoea and vomiting, which has claimed a few lives in Emeroke community, Eastern Obolo Local Government Area.

Health officials have reportedly visited some secondary health facilities in the state to ascertain the exact number of cases as a result of the disease.

The Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Health, Dr Patrick Essiet who confirmed the outbreak in a statement made available to the media said the State Epidemiologist has been sent to the community to begin enlightenment campaigns on ways to mitigate the outbreak.

“The Ministry of Health hereby advises members of the community and the environs that as an immediate intervention, proper hand washing should be done especially after defecation, that drinking water should be boiled before consumption and all persons with symptoms of diarrhoea or vomiting should seek immediate treatment at the nearest health facility.

“Furthermore, the Ministry reminds community leaders to enforce the existing ban on open defecation by the Government.

“While the State Government is working on a long-term solution, the Ministry is currently mobilising supplies to the community as an immediate and short-term measure.”

It advised the public to report all suspected cases of Cholera to the director of public health of the state ministry of health.

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