The Bayelsa State Government has officially confirmed an outbreak of cholera in several communities, following earlier denials.
Health Commissioner Prof. Seiyefa Brisibe urged residents to uphold hygiene practices to curb the disease’s spread during a segment on Radio Bayelsa’s Talk to Bayelsa program.
Brisibe identified affected areas, including Agoro, Nembe, and Esoni, but reassured the public that no fatalities had been reported in government healthcare facilities. He emphasized that cholera is preventable through proper sanitation.
The outbreak was first reported by the Bayelsa Non-Governmental Organisations Forum, which claimed there were deaths in Nembe Local Government Area. The coalition criticized the government’s delay in releasing clinical test results and its initial classification of the outbreak as gastroenteritis.
BANGOF Chairman, Mr. Taritein Boco, expressed concern over the government’s response, stating that “people are dying” and health workers have observed cholera symptoms. Local chiefs in Nembe also condemned the government’s denial, suggesting it was politically motivated.
As health officials work to address the situation, residents are reminded of the importance of hygiene to prevent further spread of the disease.
