Cholera Claims 15 Lives In Adamawa As Outbreak Is Confirmed

Cholera Claims 15 Lives In Adamawa As Outbreak Is Confirmed

Yola—A cholera outbreak in Adamawa State has resulted in the deaths of fifteen people, with the actual number of cases likely much higher, as over 300 individuals are currently hospitalized. The epidemic has affected four local government areas: Yola South, Yola North, Fufore, and Girei…….CONTINUE READING 

The state Commissioner for Health and Human Services, Felix Tangwami, confirmed the outbreak yesterday in Yola, noting that seven fatalities occurred at government facilities while eight others were recorded in communities.

Tangwami stated that the government, in collaboration with development partners, is actively addressing the situation. So far, the state has secured 200,000 cholera vaccines from UNICEF, isolated patients, administered treatments, and conducted necessary laboratory tests to identify the cause of the acute watery diarrhea.

He emphasized that the proactive measures implemented by the government have significantly helped curb the epidemic’s spread. Tangwami urged families to prioritize personal hygiene and sanitation to aid in combating the outbreak.

He explained that the delay in announcing the epidemic was due to the need for thorough confirmation of the organism causing the symptoms. “Announcing the epidemic without confirmation would be unethical and could have serious consequences,” he stated.

Tangwami reported that of the 38 samples sent to the National Reference Laboratory in Abuja, 30 tested positive for cholera, while six were negative, and two are still undergoing isolation.

He added, “With these results, I can confirm that there is an outbreak of cholera in Adamawa State. People should exercise caution regarding their movements, interactions, personal hygiene, and the quality of water they consume.”

To date, approximately 308 people have been admitted, with 244 successfully treated and discharged. The 15 fatalities include six at medical facilities and six at home. Tangwami reassured the public that health workers are doing everything possible to contain the outbreak.