The Enugu State Ministry of Health has confirmed an outbreak of cholera in the state, leading to the tragic death of 10 individuals so far. The ministry has swiftly launched a containment effort to halt the spread of the disease and save lives.
In an internal memo signed by the Director of Medical Services, Dr. Samuel Egwuonwu, the ministry alerted healthcare providers across the state to the severity of the outbreak and provided clear instructions on handling suspected cases. The memo, issued on behalf of the Commissioner for Health, warned that several cases had already been recorded and highlighted the possibility that more fatalities could occur if proper measures are not taken.
"I am directed to inform you about the outbreak of cholera in Enugu State. Several cases have been recorded, and it is feared that approximately 10 individuals may have died," the memo stated.
The document further advised health workers to remain vigilant for symptoms of cholera, such as severe diarrhea, abdominal cramps, and vomiting, which can lead to life-threatening dehydration if untreated. The ministry also urged healthcare facilities to enhance Infection Prevention and Control (IPC) measures and to report any new cases immediately.
The outbreak has spurred the state into action. On Monday, the Commissioner for Health, Prof. Emmanuel Obi, released a public statement, reassuring residents that the ministry was following established protocols from the Nigerian Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) to contain the situation.
“The Enugu State Ministry of Health is working with its partners to curb the spread of cholera within the state,” Prof. Obi said. “We are following NCDC protocols to ensure the situation is quickly brought under control.”
In addition to its containment efforts, the ministry emphasized the critical importance of preventive measures. It has urged residents to practice proper hygiene, including regular hand-washing with soap and water, ensuring they consume only clean water, and practicing safe food handling. The public is also encouraged to report any sudden cases of diarrhea to the nearest healthcare facility for prompt treatment.
Cholera, an acute diarrheal illness caused by ingestion of food or water contaminated with *Vibrio cholerae* bacteria, can lead to rapid dehydration and death if not treated quickly. The outbreak in Enugu mirrors a broader cholera crisis that has been affecting other parts of Nigeria, prompting public health officials to issue renewed warnings.
As health authorities in Enugu intensify efforts to stop the spread of the disease, they are calling for increased public awareness and cooperation in following hygiene guidelines to mitigate the risk of infection.
Public health officials are continuing to monitor the situation closely, and updates will be provided as more information becomes available.
