Rivers State Reports Nine Deaths in Fresh Cholera Outbreak

The Rivers State Ministry of Health has confirmed that at least nine people have died in a fresh cholera outbreak, with cases reported in two local government areas. The outbreak, which has affected Andoni and Akuku-Toru, has seen 41 suspected cases as of January 13, 2025.

Dr Adaeze Oreh, the State Commissioner for Health, announced the deaths during a media briefing on Thursday in Port Harcourt. She confirmed that three deaths occurred in Andoni, while six were reported in Akuku-Toru. The deaths follow reports of acute watery diarrhoea, a key symptom of cholera.

While the exact cause of the deaths is still under investigation, Dr Oreh stated that the symptoms align with cholera and that the Ministry of Health is closely monitoring the situation.

“We have not yet confirmed that the deaths were caused by cholera, but the symptoms are consistent with it,” Oreh said.

The commissioner stated that the outbreak was first detected on January 11, when three deaths were recorded in the Isiodun community of Andoni within 48 hours. A rapid response team led by the Director of Public Health and Disease Control immediately investigated the cases and began measures to contain the outbreak.

Dr. Oreh called on residents to practice proper hygiene, including frequent handwashing with soap and clean water, especially before eating and after using the toilet.

The Rivers State Ministry of Health, in collaboration with Andoni local government authority and partners, have activated emergency measures, including intensified surveillance and public awareness campaigns, Warri Sentinel learnt.

Rivers State has experienced recurrent cholera outbreaks, particularly during the dry season, posing significant challenges to public health due to the rapid spread of the disease and its high mortality rate. The state government has assured residents that efforts are underway to prevent further spread and mitigate the impact of the outbreak.