We’ve ensured no further death to cholera – Delta govt

The Delta State Government has said it has risen to the challenge posed by the cholera outbreak by ensuring no further death occurred outside the seven it recorded in February.

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The state Commissioner for Health, Dr Joseph Onojaeme, disclosed this at a news conference at the Ministry of Information in Asaba on Tuesday.

According to him, the first outbreak in mid-February was at Warri South-West Local Government Area (LGA) with seven deaths, which were mainly children.

He noted that the state had since then recorded second and third outbreaks, spreading over eight LGAs but with no additional death recorded.

The commissioner said that the state government’s intervention was adequate to contain the disease, caused by bacteria infection and spread by consuming infected water or food.

Onojaeme, however, advised on the need for regular handwashing, intake of potable water and maintenance of a clean and hygienic environment.

“We have done so much to respond to the challenge with a view to controlling it through the Epidemiology Unit of the Health Ministry.

“We do not quarantine cholera patients because the disease is not airborne, but we treat victims and advise them to avoid the risk factors.

“We are continuing our control process with adequate advocacy,” he said.

He said that cholera has a 12-day incubation period upon which a victim without a symptom could spread it to others.

“However, a regular habit of hygiene can help to contain it,” he said.

Earlier, the state Commissioner for Information, Dr Ifeanyi Osuoza, said the new conference was to give an update on the state government’s efforts at checkmating the disease.

He called for adequate publicity to inform and educate the people on the need to keep a clean environment for the safety of all.

Osuoza urged all and sundry to support the government to achieve a holistic defeat of the scourge.