The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA), has reported an outbreak of cholera in the territory.
Addressing Journalists in Abuja, the Acting Secretary, Health and Human Services, Dr. Mohammed Kawu, said that as at June 23, no fewer than seven deaths and 91 suspected cases have been recorded.
While explaining that the sporadic outbreak in the rainy season could be as a result of the leaching of sewage into drinking waterways or from contamination of food matters by bacteria, he said that 50 percent of the cases if not treated could lead to death.
“From May 2021, FCT began to receive reports of sporadic cases of gastroenteritis in some communities in the FCT namely; Wassa Community (IDP Camp), Dei Dei, Zuba Community, Shenagun and Kubwa, drawn from three area councils in the Federal Capital Territory of Abuja Municipal, Bwari and Gwagwalada Area Councils.
“As at June 23, a total of 91 suspected cases have so far been recorded with seven deaths in the Municipal and no death in Gwagwalada and Bwari Area Councils. Out of these, three of the cases tested positive for cholera using the rapid diagnostic test kit.”
He however, assured residents that the health and human service secretariat through the Public Health has intensified surveillance in the communities and the health facilities have also directed the area councils to do the same respectively.
According to him, “We have prepositioned some rapid diagnostic test kits, drugs and consumables in some of our health facilities that have reported cases and we are in the process of distributing these commodities to the remaining health facilities including some key primary health facilities.”
Ongoing sensitisation of preventive measures
Speaking further, he disclosed that community sensitisation on preventive measures is ongoing.
He however, urged FCT residents to report any case of diarrhea disease to the nearest health facility or the department of public health.
“Ensure that the water used for domestic purposes is clean, boiled and or filtered. Ensure that all foods are properly cleaned and well cooked before consumption. Ensure that waste especially faecal waste are hygienically disposed off. Improve on general personal hygiene” Kawu urged residents.
Furthermore, Kawa also assured residents that there’s no evidence of any contamination of water from the water board.
He also called on residents not to panic as the Administration through the Health and Human Service has stepped up its manpower to combat the epidemic.
Emmanuel Ukoh
