Cholera Outbreak: Kogi Govt. Confirms 17 Suspected Cases, 3 Deaths

Cholera outbreak

17 cases of cholera including three deaths have been confirmed by the Kogi State government in Kabawa Uphill Community area in Lokoja, the state capital.

A a news conference in the state capital, Kolawole Johnson, the Permanent Secretary, Kogi Ministry of Health, said the ministry got a report of outbreak of cholera in Kabawa on Wednesday from the Lokoja Local Government Disease Surveillance and Notification Officer (DSNO).

The Rapid Response Team of the ministry have been directed by the Commissioner of Police Dr. Saka Audu to investigate the outbreak and respond appropriately.

“From the findings, 17 suspected cases of cholera; nine males and eight females mostly adults, out of which six are currently on admission receiving treatment. We have two positive cases by RDT,” Johnson said.

He stated further that three deaths have been confirmed in the state so far in the Kabawa Uphill Community of Lokoja, where the outbreak occurred.

“During the active case search, the community was also given health education on personal hygiene and environmental sanitation.

“Key community influencers were sensitized on the need for proper hand washing, personal hygiene and adequate treatment of drinking water by boil, and not to drink water from unprotected well.

“Environmental and water samples were taken for analysis and preliminary result is negative for Vibro Cholera (the Causative Organism of Cholera).

“Rapid Diagnostic Test Kits are also being made available for prompt diagnosis of cases, and the surveillance team will continue to be on the watch for early identification of cases and ensure timely response.” he said.

The permanent Secretary admonished member of the public to report any case of diarrhea and vomiting to the nearest health facility for proper diagnosis and treatment. He also advice that the residents of the state should remain calm.

He applauded the state rapid response team and Lokoja LGA, for their prompt action, and the state government for providing the needed logistics to the ministry.