The Edo State government has confirmed eight suspected cases of cholera out of 16 samples tested in the state but has assured residents not to panic. The authorities, supported by World Health Organization (WHO) staff in the state, are closely monitoring all affected individuals, as well as those they have been in contact with.
In addition to the cholera situation, the government reported that 226 cases of Lassa fever have been recorded this year out of over 2,300 suspected cases, with 36 resulting in fatalities.
Dr. Ojeifo Stephenson, the Director of Public Health at the Ministry of Health, provided this update, emphasizing that the state is fully prepared to handle any emergencies. Accompanied by WHO officials led by Dr. Eyo Nora, Dr. Ojiefoh stated, “There is no need for panic. The state is taking every necessary step to address any disease outbreak. Edo State is ready to respond to emergencies and tackle them effectively.”
He continued, “Last Thursday, we received an alert about some suspected cholera cases admitted at the University of Benin Teaching Hospital (UBTH). In collaboration with the WHO team, we immediately dispatched a team to assess the patients’ conditions and determine the next course of action.”
Of the 16 patients admitted to UBTH, rapid diagnostic tests (RDTs) were conducted, showing eight cases as positive for cholera and eight as non-reactive. Dr. Ojiefoh explained, “We have collected samples from the eight reactive cases and sent them to the National Reference Laboratory in Abuja for confirmatory testing. Until those results come back positive, we cannot confirm any cholera cases in Edo State.”
The government reassured the public, noting that since last Thursday, all but one of the patients have been discharged from UBTH. Surveillance systems have been activated for contact tracing and community awareness, with officials identifying individuals who may have come into contact with the suspected cases and educating the community on maintaining hygiene and clean environments. Dr. Ojiefoh added, “We urge the public to go to the hospital immediately if they suspect any cases.”
Regarding Lassa fever, Dr. Ojiefoh also noted that efforts are underway to eliminate the disease’s vector, rats, and make Edo State free of Lassa fever.
