The Akwa Ibom State Government has declared a cholera outbreak in Emeroke community, located in Eastern Obolo Local Government Area.
The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Health, Dr. Patrick Essiet, made the announcement on Sunday, confirming that the State Epidemiologist has been sent to the community to educate residents on how to reduce the spread of the disease.
Dr. Essiet advised residents to maintain proper hygiene by washing their hands thoroughly after using the toilet and boiling drinking water before consumption. He also urged anyone experiencing symptoms like diarrhea or vomiting to visit the nearest health facility immediately.
“Community leaders are reminded to enforce the government’s ban on open defecation, as this practice increases the risk of cholera outbreaks,” Dr. Essiet added.
The state government has begun mobilizing immediate relief supplies for the affected community while working on long-term solutions to prevent future outbreaks.
In a show of support, the Chairman of Eastern Obolo Local Government Council, Samuel Nteogwuijah, visited Emmanuel General Hospital in Eket on Sunday, accompanied by his wife and other local leaders.
During the visit, Nteogwuijah assured the community that efforts were being coordinated to combat the outbreak. “We are collaborating with the state government and other relevant agencies to contain the spread of this disease,” he said.
The Chairman expressed gratitude to Governor Umo Eno for his quick response in directing the Ministry of Health and other agencies to provide urgent assistance.
Health officials are working to determine the exact number of cases and are monitoring secondary health facilities in the state to ensure the situation is under control.
The Ministry of Health has reiterated its commitment to ensuring that the outbreak is contained and has urged residents to cooperate with health officials and follow recommended safety practices.
Residents are encouraged to remain vigilant and report any suspected cholera cases promptly to health authorities.
