Plateau State has recorded five confirmed cases of cholera with three fatalities and 20 suspected cases, according to the State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Nicholas Baamlong.

Speaking in Jos on Wednesday, Dr. Baamlong revealed that the confirmed cases were reported in Ngyong, Hurti, and Wurit communities, all located in Bokkos Local Government Area (LGA).

"The state ministry of health has activated an incident management system for a comprehensive and multi-sectoral response to the outbreak," Baamlong stated. He added that the state epidemiologist has been appointed as the incident manager to coordinate the response efforts.

Emergency Response Measures

The incident manager's responsibilities include establishing oral rehydration centers in affected communities and setting up cholera treatment centers and units at the college hospital in Bokkos LGA. Additionally, the manager will coordinate surveillance, case management, and risk communication activities.

Dr. Baamlong identified poor sanitation, limited access to clean water, and population displacement from recent attacks in Bokkos LGA as contributing risk factors to the outbreak. He emphasized the need for evacuation of suspected cholera cases to treatment centers.

Public Health Advisory

The Commissioner explained that cholera is an acute diarrheal disease caused by ingesting food or water contaminated with the bacterium Vibrio cholerae. He urged residents of Bokkos LGA and surrounding areas to remain vigilant, practice good hygiene, and promptly report any suspected cases to the nearest healthcare facility.

"The government remains committed to protecting the health and well-being of all Plateau residents," Baamlong affirmed, calling on all partners to support the ongoing response efforts to contain the outbreak.

Health authorities continue to monitor the situation closely as they work to prevent further spread of the disease in the affected communities.