State governments in the South-South region have activated emergency response centers to contain any potential cholera outbreak, officials from Cross River, Akwa Ibom, and Rivers states confirmed to the newsmen.
Despite the readiness, there are no confirmed cholera cases in these states. The states have initiated sensitisation campaigns to educate residents on preventive measures.
From January 1 to June 11, cholera outbreaks were reported in 96 local government areas across 30 states, with 1,141 suspected cases, 65 confirmed cases, and 30 deaths, according to the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC).
In Akwa Ibom, Health Commissioner Prof. Augustine Umoh stated, “For now, there is no reported case of cholera outbreak in the state.” He emphasized the importance of maintaining hygiene and urged residents to adopt household water treatment methods. The state is stocking emergency drugs and has reactivated emergency operations centres.
Rivers Commissioner for Health, Dr. Adaeze Oreh, confirmed the absence of cholera cases in the state, despite earlier reports of Acute Watery Diarrhoea. “At present, there are no active cases or any outbreak of cholera or acute watery diarrhoea in Rivers state,” she said. The state has deployed medical supplies and enhanced health professionals’ skills.
Cross River Commissioner for Health, Dr. Henry Ayuk, reported no recent cholera outbreaks, with the last confirmed case in January 2024 effectively addressed. “The public health emergency response centre has been activated while local government response teams are strengthened,” he stated. Ayuk emphasized the importance of good personal hygiene and prompt reporting of symptoms.
The states’ measures aim to prevent cholera outbreaks and ensure the health and well-being of their residents.
