Cholera outbreak: Enugu market records 19 infection, 7 death – Commissioner

The Enugu State Ministry of Health has recorded 19 infections and 7 deaths, in the New Artisan market due to cholera  outbreak and they had been evacuated to the State Teaching Hospital, ESUT-Parklane, for treatment.

The Commissioner for Health, Dr. Ikechukwu Obi, disclosed that the ministry had commenced surveillance, contact-tracing and risk assessment at the market and its environs, adding that Health Emergency Operations Centre for Cholera outbreak would be activated in response to stop further spread.

“The Enugu State Ministry of Health received reports of deaths occurring suddenly, after a short spell of illness, on Friday morning, around the New Artisan livestock market in Enugu, Enugu State.

“Upon immediate investigation by the Ministry of Health’s rapid response team, it was observed that the patients presented with sudden onset of passage of loose stool and vomiting.

“It was revealed that the illness had resulted in the death of seven persons and that subsequently, several others numbering about 19 were ill with the same symptoms of loose stools and vomiting.

“The ill persons identified within the area were immediately and safely evacuated to the state teaching hospital and are receiving treatment, while health education on safe and hygienic practices were given to the inhabitants of the market,” he added.

Further tests carried out by the State Ministry of Health at the teaching hospital revealed that, all the persons were suffering from Cholera. Samples were collected for further confirmatory tests of the finding.

According to him, surveillance, contact tracing and risk assessment have commenced at the market and its environs.

Cholera is an infection caused by some strains of the bacterium Vibrio cholerae. Risk factors are poor sanitation and contaminated drinking water.

The classic symptom is large amounts of watery diarrhea that lasts a few days. Vomiting and muscle cramps may also occur. Symptoms range from none to mild, to severe.

“While we commiserate and pray with those who have lost their loved ones, we enjoin the general public to keep safe as the situation is under control and the Enugu State Ministry of Health will keep the public informed on future developments.”

Martha M/ Punch