By Ogenyi Ogenyi, Uyo
The Akwa Ibom State Government has confirmed an outbreak of cholera in Emeroke community, located in Eastern Obolo Local Council, with symptoms including diarrhea and vomiting. The outbreak has reportedly resulted in “a few fatalities.”
While only a few cases have been officially recorded, health officials have visited a secondary health facility in the state to ascertain the exact number of cases and provide necessary interventions.
Dr. Patrick Essiet, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Health, confirmed the outbreak in a statement over the weekend. He noted that the State Epidemiologist has been deployed to the affected community to conduct enlightenment campaigns and educate residents on preventive measures to curb the spread of the disease.
The Ministry of Health issued an advisory urging residents to take immediate precautionary measures, including:
– **Proper handwashing**, especially after defecation.
– **Boiling drinking water** before consumption.
– **Seeking immediate medical attention** at the nearest health facility for anyone showing symptoms of diarrhea or vomiting.
Additionally, the Ministry called on community leaders to enforce the government’s existing ban on open defecation, which has been identified as a major contributor to cholera outbreaks.
“While the State Government is working on a long-term solution, the Ministry is currently mobilizing supplies to the community as an immediate and short-term measure,” the statement added.
The public has been advised to report all suspected cholera cases to the Director of Public Health at the Ministry of Health.
