18th June, 2024
The Abia State Government has reported that, despite recording 109 cases of stooling and vomiting across six of its 17 Local Government Areas, there are no confirmed cases of cholera in the state.
Dr. Orie Agomoh, Director of Public Health and Disease Control in the Ministry of Health, confirmed this to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Tuesday in Umuahia.
Agomoh explained that the 109 suspected cholera cases were reported between January and June. Initial Rapid Diagnostic Testing (RDT) indicated positive results for cholera in two samples. However, subsequent testing at the National Reference Laboratory in Abuja confirmed these samples were negative for cholera.
The reported cases included one each in Ohafia and Osisioma LGAs, while Arochukwu, Umunneochi, Bende, and Ikwuano recorded 42, 39, 17, and nine cases, respectively.
“The State Ministry of Health emphasizes that Abia State has not recorded any confirmed positive cases of cholera during the period under review,” Agomoh stated.
“In response to cholera outbreaks in other states, the Ministry has implemented preventive measures to identify and treat any suspected cases. Citizens are urged to continue observing preventive measures such as ensuring access to safe drinking water, practicing proper sanitation and hand-washing, maintaining personal hygiene, handling food safely, washing fruits and vegetables thoroughly, and cooking food properly. The Ministry also advised against consuming roadside foods and untreated water,” Agomoh said.
The director urged vigilance and necessary precautions to prevent the spread of cholera and promised to provide updates as needed.
Contact information for Dr. Orie Agomoh and State Epidemiologist Mr. Elezuo Elezuo was provided for residents needing to reach the Ministry.