A mysterious disease has struck Mbutu Community in Aboh Mbaise Local Government Area of Imo State, killing six pupils and prompting local authorities to shut down all schools in the area for seven days.

The outbreak has spread fear across the four autonomous towns that make up the community - Mbutu Ancient Kingdom, Mbutu Nweorie, Mbutu Ukwu, and Nwenkwo - as residents worry about the rapid spread of the unidentified illness.

According to Iheukwumere Henry Alaribe, Chairman of Aboh Mbaise LGA, the decision to close both public and private schools was taken as an emergency measure to contain the spread of the disease and protect children's lives.

"Six children between one and six years have lost their lives in less than seven days," Alaribe told newsmen, highlighting the severity of the situation.

Health Authorities Respond to Outbreak

The World Health Organisation (WHO), the Department of Disease Prevention and Control in the State Ministry of Health, and health staff from the council are actively investigating the unusual disease, according to a press statement issued by the Council Chairman.

Alaribe also revealed that plans are underway to collaborate with the state government and relevant agencies to contain the outbreak and ensure the well-being of citizens in the affected area.

"In light of this outbreak, parents who have not yet vaccinated their children are strongly advised to do so," the statement emphasized. "Vaccinations are essential for preventing the spread of disease and protecting our children's health."

While the exact nature of the disease has not been identified in the report, the emphasis on vaccination suggests health authorities are taking precautionary measures against known preventable diseases.

The LGA Chairman has urged residents to remain calm and cooperate with relevant authorities as medical teams work to identify and contain the outbreak.

This health emergency comes at a time when many Nigerian communities are already facing various public health challenges, highlighting the importance of robust disease surveillance and response systems at the local level.