Plateau State records 441 suspected cholera cases, 14 deaths

Plateau State in Nigeria is grappling with a cholera outbreak, reporting 441 suspected cases, 26 confirmed infections, and 14 fatalities. The health commissioner, Dr. Nicholas Ba’amlong, provided an update on Monday, stating the outbreak began in June and has spread across Mangu, Jos North, Jos South, and Barkin Ladi Local Government Areas.

“

The Ministry of Health remained on high alert and had strengthened emergency response measures to contain the outbreak.

The Ministry of Health has intensified its efforts to control the disease. Emergency response measures have been strengthened, with the ministry collaborating with affected councils, the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC), and development partners. Community engagement is a key focus, involving traditional rulers, religious leaders, and local influencers to raise awareness about preventive measures.

Public health campaigns are utilizing radio, television, and outreach programs to disseminate vital information. Residents are urged to seek immediate medical attention for symptoms like sudden watery diarrhea or vomiting and to avoid self-medication. The government and its partners are also bolstering Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) interventions, including house-to-house education and the treatment of contaminated water sources.

“

Preventive messages were being shared through radio, television and community outreach campaigns, while residents were advised to seek prompt medical attention and avoid self-medication.

Health authorities are advising residents to drink only treated water, practice regular handwashing, maintain environmental sanitation, avoid open defecation, and ensure proper food handling. Public and private health facilities are instructed to promptly report suspected cases to Disease Surveillance and Notification Officers (DSNOs) to ensure timely investigation and response. The state government has reiterated its commitment to containing the outbreak and seeks the public's cooperation in adhering to preventive guidelines.

“

The commissioner reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to containing the outbreak and urged residents to cooperate with health authorities by adhering to preventive measures.