The Delta State Government has confirmed seven deaths in the state following the outbreak of cholera in the country.

The State Commissioner for Health, Dr Joseph Onojaeme, stated this today while giving an update on the cholera situation in Asaba, the state capital.

He said, “The first outbreak began in mid-February. The state has recorded about 138 cases in Warri South West, which is where it started, and in the third outbreak, we had 11 suspected cases in Bomadi and one in Oshimili South. So far, seven people, mainly children, have lost their lives.

“We have been able to control the disease in Delta State. The Disease Surveillance and Monitoring officers have conducted significant advocacy and educated people about the causes of the disease. It is primarily a disease associated with poor sanitary conditions. We have advised on simple hand washing and avoiding unclean water.

“The Ministry of Health has provided tablets to purify some of these waters, and since about six weeks ago, in Warri South West where it originated, we have had only 20 suspected cases. Most of the cases we have encountered have been treated, and the situation is basically under control.

“Advocacy is an ongoing process; the risk factors include poor sanitary conditions and reduced stomach acid. Cholera has an incubation period of up to 12 days, so within this period, someone who is not yet showing symptoms can spread it via faeces and urine to others in close proximity.

He noted that the male-to-female ratio of the casualties was 3:1, adding that the casualties were recorded during the first outbreak, while the second and third outbreaks are under control by the State Ministry of Health.

The Commissioner also mentioned that the disease is common among villages situated along water banks and listed high-risk local government areas in the state as Warri South West, Warri North, Warri South, Ughelli North, Ughelli South, Patani, Bomadi, and Burutu.

PUNCH