BY DONALD OJEBO
The Delta State Government has assured residents that it is closely monitoring the suspected cases of Cholera outbreak in some communities in Burutu and Isoko South Local Government Areas.
The Delta State Commissioner for Health, Dr Joseph Onojaeme made this known in Asaba while responding to questions on the outbreak of the disease in the State.
He said the state government has not recorded any confirmed case of Cholera but has one confirmed case of Lassa fever and added that Rapid Response Teams have been deployed to the affected communitie for immediate response, case management and infection prevention and control.
Onojaeme disclosed that the Ministry of Health was working closely with other relevant Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs), and partners such as the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Nigerian Red Cross Society (NRCS), to ensure that the health of residents are safeguarded.
He advised that early presentation at health facilities can significantly improve survival rate, and explained that Cholera symptoms include severe diarrhoea, dehydration, vomiting, and rapid weight loss while that of Lassa fever include fever, weakness, headache, vomiting, and, in severe cases, bleeding from body openings.
The Commissioner said 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 and that in addition health workers have stepped up efforts at sensitizing 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 Deltans should keep their surroundings clean and ensure they engage in improved sanitary practices.
Residents are, therefore, encouraged to report any suspected case to the nearest health facility and avoid self-medication, cooperate with health officials, and adhere strictly to preventive guidelines.
