Cholera Outbreak in Rivers State Claims Nine Lives, Authorities Respond Swiftly

Rivers State, Nigeria – A suspected cholera outbreak has claimed the lives of nine individuals in Rivers State, with the majority of the deaths occurring in Andoni and Akuku-Toru local government areas. The state’s Ministry of Health confirmed the outbreak on January 13, 2025, after reports of a sharp rise in cases of acute diarrhea, vomiting, and dehydration.

Dr. Adaeze Oreh, the Commissioner for Health in Rivers State, disclosed that 41 suspected cholera cases have been reported so far, with the majority of cases emerging from Isiodum Community in Andoni and parts of Akuku-Toru. Of the nine deaths, three occurred in Isiodum, while six were recorded in Akuku-Toru.

Although cholera has not yet been confirmed in Andoni due to difficulties in collecting stool samples, the symptoms in the reported cases are consistent with cholera, prompting health authorities to take urgent action. Dr. Oreh explained that the rapid response was triggered by the alarming rate of fatalities, particularly in Andoni, where three deaths occurred within 48 hours in early January.

In response to the outbreak, the Rivers State Public Health Emergency Centre, in collaboration with local authorities and partners, has activated emergency measures to contain the disease. These include strengthening surveillance across health facilities, enhancing case detection and reporting, and deploying rapid response teams to affected communities for case management.

Additionally, health officials have distributed essential medical supplies such as oral rehydration salts, intravenous fluids, and other medications to local health centers. Efforts to educate communities about cholera prevention are underway, with a focus on promoting hand washing, the consumption of safe drinking water, and the dangers of open defecation.

Dr. Oreh has urged residents to seek medical attention immediately if they experience symptoms such as severe diarrhea, vomiting, and dehydration, advising that timely treatment is crucial in preventing further deaths.

The Ministry of Health continues to work with local government authorities to monitor the situation closely and prevent the further spread of cholera.