Plateau State has reported 441 suspected cholera cases, 26 confirmed infections, and 14 deaths since the outbreak started in June.
The Commissioner for Health, Nicholas Ba’amlong, shared this information on Monday in Jos while giving an update on the situation.
Mr Ba’amlong mentioned that the cases were found in Mangu, Jos North, Jos South, and Barkin Ladi local government areas.
He said the Ministry of Health is on high alert and has boosted emergency response measures to control the outbreak.
The ministry is working with the affected councils, the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC), and development partners to increase response activities.
Mr Ba’amlong noted that the state government has also improved community engagement through traditional rulers, religious leaders, community influencers, and other stakeholders to raise awareness.
Preventive messages are being shared through radio, television, and community outreach campaigns. Residents are encouraged to seek medical help quickly and avoid self-medication.
The commissioner said the government and partners have stepped up Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) efforts. This includes house-to-house hygiene education and monitoring of contaminated water sources.
He urged residents to drink only boiled, chlorinated, or treated water. He also advised them to wash their hands regularly with soap and clean water, keep their surroundings clean, avoid open defecation, and handle food properly.
Mr Ba’amlong encouraged anyone with sudden watery diarrhea or vomiting to report to health facilities immediately for treatment.
He also called on public and private health facilities to quickly inform Disease Surveillance and Notification Officers (DSNOs) about any suspected cases for timely investigation and response.
The commissioner assured that the state government is committed to controlling the outbreak and urged residents to cooperate with health authorities by following preventive measures.
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