Cholera: FCTA places residents on red alert, 3 die, 91 cases reported

The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) has reported cholera outbreak in the territory.

Addressing journalists in Abuja, Acting Secretary Health and Human Services, Dr. Mohammed Kawu, said as at June 23, no fewer than seven deaths and 91 suspected cases have so far been recorded.

While explaining that the sporadic outbreak in the rainy season could be as a result of the leaching of sewage into drinking waterways or from contamination of food matters by bacteria, he said 50 per cent of the cases if not treated could lead to death.

“From May 2021, FCT began to receive reports of sporadic cases of gastro-enteritis in some communities in FCT namely; Wassa Community (IDP Camp), Dei Dei, Zuba Community, Shenagun and Kubwa, drawn from three area councils in the Federal Capital Territory of Abuja Municipal, Bwari and Gwagwalada Area Councils in the Federal Capital Territory.

“As at June 23, a total of 91 suspected cases have so far been enlisted with seven deaths in Municipal and no death in Gwagwalada and Bwari Area Councils. Out of these, three of the cases tested positive for cholera using the Rapid Diagnostic Test kit.”

He, however, assured residents that the Health and Human Service Secretariat through the Public Health has intensified surveillance in the communities and health facilities have also directed the area councils to do the same respectively.

“We have prepositioned some Rapid Diagnostic Test kits, drugs and consumables in some of our health facilities that have reported cases and we are in the process of distributing these commodities to the remaining health facilities including some key primary health facilities.”

Speaking further, he disclosed that community sensitisation on preventive measures is ongoing.

He however, urged FCT residents to report any case of diarrhea disease to the nearest health facility or the department of public health.

“Ensure that the water used for domestic purposes is clean, boiled and or filtered. Ensure that all foods are properly cleaned and well cooked before consumption. Ensure that waste especially faecal wastes are hygienically disposed off. Improve on general personal hygiene,” he said.