A fresh cholera outbreak in Ebonyi State, Nigeria, has claimed 10 lives, with over 20 people hospitalized. Health officials attribute the outbreak to poor hygiene practices and contaminated water sources. The state government, in collaboration with WHO and UNICEF, is responding with medical aid and efforts to curb the spread.
A recent cholera outbreak in Ebonyi State, Nigeria, has claimed at least 10 lives, with over 20 others receiving treatment. The deaths were reported in Ndibokote village, located in Ezza-Inyimagu, Izzi Local Government Area. Ebonyi State's Health Commissioner, Dr. Moses Ekuma, confirmed the outbreak and attributed it to poor hygiene practices, such as open defecation and unclean water sources. The affected individuals have been admitted to three local hospitals for treatment.
Dr. Ekuma emphasized the importance of adopting better hygiene measures, including regular handwashing, covering food, and ensuring access to clean drinking water. He also advised residents to seek medical attention immediately if they experience symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, or dehydration, which are common signs of cholera infection.
The state government, in partnership with the World Health Organization (WHO) and UNICEF, has launched a rapid response to the outbreak, supplying adequate medication and opening additional health centers in the area. Local authorities have made transportation available to ensure the timely evacuation of suspected cases for treatment.
Community members believe the outbreak may be linked to unsanitary conditions during a recent burial, where contaminated food was consumed. The lack of clean water sources, exacerbated by recent heavy rains, has further worsened the situation in the remote village.
Efforts to combat the outbreak continue as health officials work to prevent further spread of the disease.
