BY SPECIAL CORRESPONDENT
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The Enugu State Government has begun move to stem the escalation of the cholera outbreak in the state.
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In a statement by the State Commissioner for Health, Professor Emmanuel Obi on Monday, stated that the nation-wide outbreak of the disease is spread by contaminated food or water.
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The statement further reads:
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“It causes acute watery diarrhea, (watery stool), and if left untreated can lead to death within hours. Other symptoms may include, vomiting and abdominal cramps.
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“In collaboration with its Partners, the Enugu State Ministry of Health has initiated all necessary steps to de-escalate the situation following the Nigerian Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) guidelines.
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“We, therefore, urge the public to be vigilant and adhere to the following preventive measures:
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a. Practice good hand hygiene by washing hands regularly with soap and running water, or alternatively use hand sanitizers.
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b. Use potable water from reliable sources.
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c. Intensify safe practices of food handling and preparation hygiene.
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d. Use gloves and face masks and be careful when caring for sick individuals.
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e. Report immediately, any sudden case of watery diarrhea to the nearest healthcare facility.
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“The Enugu State Ministry of Health is committed to informing on and safeguarding the health and well-being of our citizens.
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“For further information, please contact:
1. 08037431577 – Director of Public Health and Disease Control
2. 08033375344 – State Epidemiologist
3. 08037817982 – State Disease Surveillance and Notification officer
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Recall that the State Ministry of Health had confirmed the outbreak of Cholera in the state with 10 persons feared dead so far from the disease.
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In an internal memo signed by the Director of Medical Services, Samuel Egwuonwu, on behalf of the Commissioner for Health, the ministry outlined the steps being taken to address the crisis.
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“I am directed to inform you about the outbreak of cholera in Enugu State. Several cases have been recorded, and it is feared that approximately 10 individuals may have died,” the memo stated.
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The document further advised healthcare providers to be on high alert for patients presenting with symptoms such as severe diarrhea, abdominal cramps, and vomiting. It also urged them to enhance Infection Prevention and Control (IPC) measures in their facilities and report cases promptly.
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On Monday, the ministry released a public statement, announcing that it had initiated containment strategies in line with guidelines from the Nigerian Centre for Disease Control (NCDC).
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“The Enugu State Ministry of Health is working with its partners to curb the spread of cholera within the state,” said the Commissioner for Health, Prof. Emmanuel Obi. “We are following NCDC protocols to ensure the situation is quickly brought under control.”
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The ministry also stressed the importance of preventive actions, including proper hand-washing, using clean water, and practicing safe food handling. Residents were urged to immediately report any cases of sudden diarrhea to the nearest healthcare facility.
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“This outbreak comes as part of a broader cholera crisis affecting other parts of the country. Public health officials are urging citizens to remain cautious and take proactive steps to protect themselves.
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