Enugu’s epidemiologist, Ogbodo Okechukwu, says the state is committed to preventing and preparing for potential cholera outbreaks.

Mr Okechukwu spoke on the sidelines of the Training Workshop to Support States’ Water Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH) in the Emergency Working Group in Enugu.

He said Enugu had adopted a proactive approach, focusing on public awareness through communication and education regarding hygiene practices and the significance of consuming clean, potable water.

Mr Okechukwu, a consultant public health physician, said that the state government prioritised disease prevention, promptly responding to suspected cases by isolating individuals and reporting to national authorities for further investigation.

According to him, the last recorded incident of a cholera epidemic dates back to 2022, with no reported outbreaks during subsequent rainy seasons.

Highlighting the state’s preparedness efforts as cost-effective, Mr Okechukwu noted the relatively minimal impact of last year’s cholera cases compared to other states in the federation.

He said through engaging stakeholders and enforcing anti-defecation laws, the government had also taken measures to improve water infrastructure, including the drilling of boreholes and repairing pipes.

According to him, the government pumps over 70 million litres of water daily.

The state has also implemented a community informant system, empowering local members to actively survey and report potential cases, particularly instances of abnormal stooling, stated Mr Okechukwu.

Mr Okechukwu said since taking charge, major incidents of Lassa fever and cholera had significantly reduced.

He added that Enugu actively sought anti-viral drugs for Lassa fever treatment in partnership with the federal government and registered healthcare workers digitally.

The public health expert said the emphasis on prevention and swift response had remained central to the state’s strategy, effectively curtailing the spread of contagious diseases.

The WASH in Emergency Working Group was established in 2012 when the country experienced a devastating flood that affected 85 million people from 14 states.

The group has since remained active, especially in the North-East, where IDPs exist and have responded immediately to outbreaks.

The membership cuts across WASH sector players from institutions, development partners, international and local NGOs, and CSOs responding to WASH issues in the country, with UNICEF as its co-lead. 

(NAN)