From CHARLES ONYEKWERE
Enugu State Ministry of Health has confirmed the outbreak of cholera with 10 persons dead so far.
A memo signed by the Director of Medical Services, Samuel Egwuonwu, on behalf of the Commissioner for Health, outlined steps being taken to address the crisis.
The document 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.
The ministry yesterday released a public statement announcing that it had initiated containment strategies in line with guidelines from the Nigerian Centre for Disease Control, NCDC.
“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,” the release said.
The ministry also stressed the importance of preventive actions, including proper handwashing, using clean water, and practicing safe food handling. Residents were urged to immediately report any cases of sudden diarrhea to the nearest healthcare facility.
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.
