Rivers State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Adaeze Oreh has declared that the state has no active record of cholera that is currently ravaging some parts of the country in the state.
Dr Oreh however said there were 16 suspected cases of acute watery diarrhoea with two associated deaths from three communities in coastal areas of Andoni local government area of the state.
The Commissioner who spoke on Thursday while addressing journalists in Port Harcourt, the state’s capital, said the two samples tested positive for cholera by screening tool with a rapid diagnostic test, though not confirmed by culture.
She added that the state government’s surveillance is at alert for triggers and suspected cases, adding that the state’s infectious disease treatment centre is ready and able to manage cases.
She said, “Regarding the past four weeks in the State, we have had about 16 suspected cases of acute watery diarrhoea across three communities in coastal areas of Andoni local government area with two associated deaths.
“The scenario was rapidly resolved, and two samples tested positive for cholera by screening tool with a Rapid Diagnostic test (not confirmed by culture). So far there are currently no active cases or any outbreak of cholera or Acute water diarrhoea in the State.
“Using seasonal outbreak modelling, we have pre-positioned commodities around historical hot spots, built capacity of health personnel and commenced community health education for safe hygienic practices.
“The State surveillance is at an all high for triggers and suspected cases. The infectious disease treatment centre at the Rivers State University which is marked for upgrade to an infectious disease institute is ready and able to manage cases in the case of any eventuality.
“Let me assure you of the State Government commitment to adequately support, respond and contain these priority diseases. Working in partnership with World Health Organisation, National Centre for Disease Control, other sister ministries, agencies and stakeholders, we will remain resolute and proactive to ensure health security for residents of Rivers State without panic or stigma.”
While reminding that cholera is preventable, she advised residents to ensure safety of drinking water, practice hood hygiene, urging also regular hand washing with soap and clean water before eating, preparing food, and after using the toilet.
The Commissioner further recommended the use of alcohol-based hand sanitisers.
“Keep fingernails short and clean to prevent bacterial buildup. Prepare and consume food safely. Cook food thoroughly and consume it while warm. Wash fruits and vegetables with clean water before consumption. Keep food covered to protect it from contamination.
“Stop open defecation and ensure toilets are properly maintained, cleaned, and are at a safe distance from water sources. Refrain from bathing, wading, or swimming in potentially contaminated water bodies,” she added.
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