The Ministry of Health in Edo State declared a cholera outbreak on Thursday, confirming six cases of the disease so far.
Dr. Stephenson Ojeifo, the Director of Public Health, made this announcement during a news conference in Benin City.
Ojeifo revealed that out of 40 suspected cholera cases recorded in the state, six have been confirmed.
“We sent 23 suspected samples, which tested positive in the Rapid Diagnostic Test (RDT), to the National Reference Laboratory in Abuja for confirmatory testing.
Additionally, we have three suspected samples that tested negative for RDT but exhibited clear clinical signs and symptoms of cholera,” Ojeifo explained.
In total, 26 samples have been sent for confirmatory testing, and as of Tuesday, 15 results have been received, with six confirmed positive for cholera.
Ojeifo added that the state is still awaiting the remaining results.
While awaiting confirmation, patients were treated according to cholera management protocols, and all have since been discharged.
“Fortunately, no new cases have been reported in the community,” Ojeifo said.
He also noted that three of the confirmed cases were from Egor, two from Uhunmwonde, and one from Ikpoba Okha Local Government Area.
To effectively address the outbreak, Ojeifo outlined several measures: “We are activating all necessary protocols to combat this outbreak.
In collaboration with the Edo Primary Health Care Development Agency, we have designated several Primary Health Centres (PHCs) at the grassroots level to manage suspected cholera cases.
Additionally, referral centres include the University of Benin Teaching Hospital, Irrua Specialist Teaching Hospital, Edo State University Teaching Hospital, and Central Hospital in Benin City for managing severe cases.”
Ojeifo urged individuals experiencing watery stools or diarrhea to seek medical attention rather than self-medicate.
He also called on the public to remain calm, maintain good hygiene and sanitation, and report any suspected cholera cases promptly.
