UNDIAGNOSED DEATHS – NIGERIA (09): (JIGAWA) CHOLERA SUSPECTED, REQUEST
FOR INFORMATION
A ProMED-mail post
http://www.promedmail.org
ProMED-mail is a program of the
International Society for Infectious Diseases
http://www.isid.org
Date: Sun 25 Aug 2024
Source: Tribune Online [edited]
https://tribuneonlineng.com/unknown-disease-kills-five-in-jigawa/
No fewer than 5 people are feared dead in Diginsa Ward, Birniwa Local
Government Area of Jigawa State, following an outbreak of a strange
disease suspected to be cholera. Reports indicate that the disease,
initially reported in Diginsa Ward, has now spread to several villages
within the ward, resulting in the death of at least 5 individuals.
disease started in Mara village, which is close to our village, a few
weeks ago.” He continued, “When it first started, there was little
action taken. Some affected individuals received basic medication from
chemists and the small clinic in Diginsa.” [HA] explained that panic set in as the disease spread among
residents, leading to additional fatalities. He noted that government
intervention was delayed, with no initial response for several days.
The situation worsened, spreading to nearby villages, including
Fulanin Dallah.
“Over time, the outbreak spread to many villages, including ours,
Fulanin Dallah, where we lost a housewife to the disease.” He added,
“To my knowledge, the affected areas include Mara, where the disease
was first reported. Many people have died, and I am not sure of the
exact number. In our village, Fulanin Dallah, 1 woman died; 2 people
died in Madanna; and another 2 people lost their lives. I am aware of
at least 5 deaths.”
Online Tribune has learned that the state Ministry of Health has
responded by sending a team of medical personnel to the affected
areas.
A source from the ministry, who requested anonymity, stated, “I am not
authorized to speak to the media. That is the responsibility of the
commissioner. However, I can confirm that a team of health personnel
is on the ground doing their best. An isolated ward has been
established at Birniwa General Hospital where all patients are being
admitted.”
Attempts to contact Commissioner Dr. Abdullahi Kainuwa by phone and
text have been unsuccessful.
In related developments, the state government has proposed a bill to
the State House of Assembly to enhance public health security. The
bill aims to establish isolation centers at local government and ward
levels and allocate health personnel for managing emergency
situations.
A source at the House of Assembly reported that the bill has passed
its second reading and, with unanimous consent, has been referred to
the House Committee on Public Accounts. The committee is expected to
report back within 4 weeks.