26th September, 2012
JETHRO IBILEKE/Benin
An outbreak of chicken pox at one of the six refuge camps set up in Edo North to accommodate victims of the flood occasioned by the overflowing River Niger that sacked over 10 communities in four local government areas of the State last weekend, has left two persons dead.
The two victims who were said to be below 15 years of age, died as a result of exposure to extreme cold in the camp, after being weakened by the chicken pox.
The four local government areas affected were Esan South East, Esan North East, Etsako Central and Etsako East.
Confirming the death of the flood victims during an assessment visit to the camps, Edo State Commissioner for Health, Dr. (Mrs.) Cordelia Aiwize, said the State government has swung into action to curtail looming epidemic following the suspected outbreak of cholera, malaria and other water-borne diseases.
Dr. (Mrs.) Aiwizie expressed pains over the poor condition under which the victims are kept in the camps, just as she worried over their state of health of the victims who now take refuge at public school buildings.
The Commissioner who ordered for the immediate deployment of medical personnel and other health workers to the camps to prevent outbreak of cholera, malaria and other water borne diseases in the camps, told Chairmen of the affected local government areas to help provide and co-ordinate the displaced people with foods and other essential needs.
She disclosed that in view of the magnitude of situation on ground, more medical facilities and drugs is being supplied to address health issues.
Many of the displaced flooded victims, including children, youths and the elderly were said to have been weakened by hunger and cold, with some laid down in anticipation of help and assistance to cushion the challenges of meeting their needs.