The Delta State government has deployed its Rapid Response Teams to several communities in Burutu and Isoko South LGAs where a suspected cholera outbreak has occurred.
The affected communities include Ekogbene in Bolou Ndoro ward, Ofuogbene-Ogulaha in the Burutu council, and Ikpide-Irri in the Isoko South local government area of the state.
The state Commissioner for Health, Dr Joseph Onojaeme, stated that the state has not recorded any confirmed case of the disease but has one confirmed case of Lassa fever.
Earlier reports indicated that at least five persons died as a result of the cholera outbreak a few days ago.
According to Dr Onojaeme, the deployment of the response teams was for immediate response, case management, and infection prevention and control.
Speaking on the development on Saturday, Dr Onojaeme disclosed that the Ministry of Health is working closely with other relevant Ministries, Departments, Agencies, and partners such as the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Nigerian Red Cross Society (NRCS), to ensure that the health of residents is safeguarded.
He advised that early presentation at health facilities can significantly improve survival rates, explaining that cholera symptoms include severe diarrhoea, dehydration, vomiting, and rapid weight loss, while those of Lassa fever include fever, weakness, headache, vomiting, and, in severe cases, bleeding from body openings.
The Commissioner stated that samples (stool specimens) have been tested using rapid diagnostic test (RDT) kits, which have been sent to the National Referral Laboratory for final analysis and confirmation.
He said health workers have stepped up efforts to sensitise communities on hygiene practices and early symptoms to watch for, and at the same time ensure enhanced surveillance by tracking suspected cases to prevent further transmission.
“It should be noted that poor sanitary conditions and hygiene practices enable these diseases to thrive, and it is advisable that Deltans keep their surroundings clean and engage in improved sanitary practices.
“Residents are therefore encouraged to report any suspected case to the nearest health facility, avoid self-medication, cooperate with health officials, and adhere strictly to preventive guidelines,” Dr Onojaeme advised.
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