9 Dead from Suspected Cholera Outbreak in Rivers State
At least nine individuals have reportedly died following a suspected cholera outbreak in the Andoni and Akuku-Toru local government areas of Rivers State.
Dr. Adaeze Oreh, the state Commissioner for Health, revealed this tragic development during a briefing with journalists in Port Harcourt on Thursday. She confirmed that six of the deaths occurred in Andoni, while three others were recorded in Akuku-Toru.
Dr. Oreh explained that 41 suspected cholera cases have been reported in the affected areas, with five confirmed cases in Akuku-Toru. However, the exact cause of death has not been definitively linked to cholera, as the Ministry of Health is still in the process of confirming the disease.
“We express our deepest sympathy to the victims of the suspected cholera outbreak. While we have not yet confirmed cholera in the Isiodum community of Andoni, the symptoms observed are consistent with cholera,” Dr. Oreh said. “Cholera, an acute diarrheal disease, thrives in areas with poor water sanitation and hygiene conditions.”
She also highlighted that Rivers State has seen recurrent outbreaks of acute watery diarrhea and cholera, particularly during the dry seasons, which present significant public health challenges due to their high mobility and mortality rates.
As of January 13, 2025, a total of 41 suspected cholera cases had been reported across both local government areas. Of those, five cases in Akuku-Toru have been confirmed. However, no confirmed cases have yet been reported from Andoni, as sample collection from the affected areas was delayed.
Dr. Oreh also mentioned that the state had recorded nine deaths linked to the outbreak, with three of them originating from Andoni. She assured the public that health officials are continuing efforts to contain the outbreak.
Authorities are urging residents to adopt better hygiene practices, including proper sanitation and safe water consumption, to prevent further spread of the disease.
