The Plateau State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Nicholas Baamlong, has confirmed an outbreak of cholera in the state, with five confirmed cases, three fatalities, and twenty suspected cases reported as of Wednesday.
Speaking to journalists in Jos, Baamlong disclosed that the confirmed cases were detected in Ngyong, Hurti, and Wurit communities within Bokkos Local Government Area.
“The state Ministry of Health has activated an incident management system for a comprehensive and multi-sectoral response to the outbreak,” Baamlong stated.
He further explained that the state Epidemiologist has been appointed as the Incident Manager to oversee containment measures.
“The duties of the Incident Manager include overseeing the establishment of oral rehydration centres in the affected communities, as well as cholera treatment centres and units at the College Hospital in Bokkos LGA,” Baamlong said.
He added: “The Incident Manager will also coordinate surveillance, case management and risk communication activities.”
The commissioner attributed the outbreak to poor sanitation, limited access to clean water, and population displacement caused by recent attacks in Bokkos LGA. He emphasized the need for immediate evacuation of suspected cases to designated treatment centers.
“Cholera is an acute diarrheal disease caused by ingesting food or water contaminated with the bacterium Vibrio cholerae,” Baamlong explained.
The health commissioner urged residents in affected areas to remain vigilant, maintain proper hygiene, and report suspected cases promptly.
“We call on residents of Bokkos LGA and surrounding areas to remain vigilant, practise good hygiene and promptly report any suspected cases of cholera to the nearest healthcare facility,” he advised.
Baamlong reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to protecting public health, stating: “The government remains committed to safeguarding the health and well-being of all Plateau residents.”
He also appealed for support from development partners to strengthen the ongoing emergency response efforts in the affected communities.
The outbreak comes amid heightened health surveillance in Plateau State following recent security challenges that have displaced populations in several LGAs, creating conditions conducive to disease spread. Health officials have intensified monitoring in neighboring communities to prevent further transmission.
