Yobe declares cholera outbreak over with 3.7% fatality ratio

The Yobe state government has declared cholera outbreak over in five council areas with a case fatality ratio of 3.7 per cent.

The outbreak, which was reported on March 28, 2018 in Gashua by Ministry of Health spread to neighbouring councils of Karasuwa, Jakusko, Yusufari and Bursari with 404 cases and claimed 16 lives.

Announcing the declaration on Monday in Damaturu, the Commissioner of Health, Dr. Mohammed Kawuwa said that it has been more than 21 days without report of any suspected case of cholera in Yobe.

He said when the number of suspected cases in epidemic areas significantly declines; and all sample from suspected cholera cases tested negative, for a minimum of two weeks, the outbreak can be considered ended.

According to him; the State Ministry of Health with supports of World Health Oraganisation (WHO) coordinated other health sector partners to a full-scale response.

His words: “I would like to state that by all standards, the response activities were a huge success. We are being able to keep mortality at this very low level in the context we currently find ourselves.

“Hence, we are here today to officially declare the cholera outbreak over. You’re all heroes and heroines for contributing in one way or the other in saving the lives people affected by this outbreak.

He said that the state is “stronger and better prepared” for future epidemic occurrences.

The preparations, according to him, include the overcoming of water supply and sanitation challenges in Gashua and 16 other councils.

A representative of WHO, who does not want to be identified at yesterday’s declaration, said environmental surveillance will commence with timely reporting at the community levels.

He further disclosed that $2 million (N720 million) has been earmarked for surveillance and re-training of health workers.

“Surveillance and efficient case management were strong points that helped WHO and other partners contain the outbreak from spreading across the state,” he said.