From Moshood Karim
Benin City— The Edo State Government has ramped up its efforts to prevent a cholera outbreak by activating all health facilities and enhancing surveillance systems, particularly around border towns.
This proactive measure is part of the State’s comprehensive strategy to safeguard public health amid rising concerns about the pandemic.
Dr. Ojiefo Stephenson, Director of Public Health at the Ministry of Health, provided an update on the government’s initiatives. He emphasized the importance of these preventive measures to avert a potential health crisis.
“We have mobilized all health facilities across the state and intensified surveillance, especially in border areas where the risk of transmission is higher,” Dr. Stephenson stated.
Cholera, an acute diarrheal illness caused by infection of the intestine with Vibrio cholerae bacteria, can lead to severe dehydration and death if untreated. Given the proximity of Edo State to regions with reported cases, the government is taking no chances.
The activation of health facilities includes equipping them with necessary medical supplies, training healthcare workers on cholera management, and establishing rapid response teams to quickly address any suspected cases. Enhanced surveillance involves monitoring and reporting systems that ensure timely detection and containment of the disease.
Dr. Stephenson also appealed to residents to maintain high standards of personal and environmental hygiene, and to report any suspected cases to the nearest health facility promptly. He assured the public that the state government is committed to ensuring the health and safety of its citizens.
This initiative is part of Edo State’s broader health security framework, aimed at building resilience against infectious diseases and improving overall public health outcomes.
