Dr. Shurkuk stressed that delayed information on the cholera outbreak may have worsened outcomes for some patients, appealing to residents to report symptoms of cholera immediately.
Plateau State, Nigeria — A cholera outbreak in Kwalmiya, a community within Kanam Local Government Area of Plateau State, has resulted in the death of two residents, with 18 others currently hospitalized, according to state health officials.
Dr. Cletus Shurkuk, Plateau State Commissioner for Health, confirmed the outbreak during a briefing in Jos. He reported that 20 people were affected in total, with two fatalities. “We woke up this week to the report of a suspected cholera case in the Kwalmiya community…we mobilized resources, and from the assessment, 20 people were affected,” Shurkuk stated.
Of those hospitalized, 16 have been treated and discharged, while two remain under care. Local healthcare teams, in coordination with primary healthcare facilities, have provided necessary medical supplies and continue to monitor the situation to prevent further spread.
The health commissioner emphasized the need for immediate reporting of suspected cases to health authorities. He urged citizens to maintain strict hygiene practices, including treating drinking water, washing fruits, and regular handwashing. “People should boil water if clean sources are unavailable and avoid open defecation to prevent contamination,” Dr. Shurkuk advised.
The outbreak has also highlighted longstanding water access issues in Kwalmiya. The community relies on a single well for drinking water after two boreholes fell into disrepair. Dr. Shurkuk noted that his Ministry is working closely with the Plateau State Ministry of Water Resources to address the shortage, while local authorities have been urged to repair the boreholes promptly.
Dr. Shurkuk stressed that delayed information on the outbreak may have worsened outcomes for some patients, appealing to residents to report symptoms of cholera immediately.
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