Delta State’s Health Commissioner, Dr. Joseph Onojaeme, announced on Tuesday that the state has successfully managed the recent cholera outbreak. Speaking in Asaba, Dr. Onojaeme detailed the state’s efforts in controlling the disease, which has seen three national outbreaks this year.
Since February, Delta State has reported a total of 138 cholera cases, with seven fatalities occurring during the first wave. The majority of those affected have been young children. No new deaths have been reported in the subsequent outbreaks.
Dr. Onojaeme, accompanied by State Commissioner for Information Dr. Ifeanyi Osuoza and Chief Press Secretary Sir Festus Ahon, explained that the initial epidemic was most severe in Warri South-West, where the outbreak began. The state has since seen a total of seven cases in Bomadi and one in Oshimili South during the second and third waves.
The Health Commissioner emphasized that cholera, a disease often linked to poor sanitation, has been contained through extensive public education on hygiene, safe drinking water, and the provision of water purification tablets. The state has also ramped up disease surveillance and advocacy efforts to prevent further spread.
Dr. Onojaeme highlighted that while Warri South-West has reported only 20 suspected cases in the past six weeks, the overall situation remains under control. He noted that maintaining hygiene and avoiding contact with infected individuals are crucial in preventing the spread of the disease.
The state continues to focus on high-risk local governments, including Warri South, Warri South-West, Warri North, Ughelli North, Ughelli South, Patani, Bomadi, and Burutu, with ongoing surveillance and preventive measures.
