Cholera Outbreak Declared in Akwa Ibom Community: Government Steps In
The Akwa Ibom State Government has confirmed a cholera outbreak in Emeroke community, located in Eastern Obolo Local Government Area. This announcement was made on Sunday by Dr. Patrick Essiet, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Health.
Government’s Swift Response
To mitigate the outbreak, the State Epidemiologist has been deployed to the community to lead awareness campaigns. Dr. Essiet emphasized the importance of personal hygiene, urging residents to wash their hands thoroughly, especially after defecation, and to boil drinking water before consumption.
Residents showing symptoms such as diarrhea or vomiting have been advised to seek immediate medical attention at nearby health facilities. Community leaders were also reminded to enforce the government’s ban on open defecation, as it remains a critical factor in preventing further spread of the disease.
Relief Efforts Underway
Dr. Essiet assured the public that the government is working on both immediate and long-term solutions. Short-term relief supplies are being mobilized to provide support to those affected. Health officials have begun visiting healthcare facilities to assess the situation and determine the number of cases.
Local Government’s Commitment
The Chairman of Eastern Obolo Local Government Council, Samuel Nteogwuijah, has pledged a coordinated effort to combat the outbreak. During a visit to Emmanuel General Hospital in Eket on Sunday, Nteogwuijah, alongside his wife and other community leaders, expressed his commitment to working closely with relevant stakeholders to contain the spread of the disease.
“Plans are in place to collaborate with the state government and relevant agencies to ensure the outbreak is controlled,” he said, thanking Governor Umo Eno for directing the Ministry of Health and other agencies to provide urgent assistance.
Preventing cholera starts with simple actions like clean hands and safe water. Together, we can stop its spread and protect our communities.”
Cholera is a preventable disease, and proper hygiene practices remain key in curbing its spread. The government’s rapid response, combined with community cooperation, can prevent further escalation of the outbreak. Nigerians are urged to support such efforts by adhering to health guidelines and staying informed about preventative measures.
Together, with proactive measures and sustained collaboration, the spread of cholera in affected areas can be effectively contained.
