The Adamawa State government has confirmed a cholera outbreak that has claimed 12 lives and led to the hospitalization of 308 individuals. Out of the total affected, 244 have been successfully treated and discharged.
This was revealed in a statement by the state’s Commissioner of Health and Human Services, Mr. Felix Tangwami, on Sunday in Yola.
Tangwami provided a detailed breakdown of the situation, stating, “So far, about 308 people have been admitted into hospitals. Out of this number, 244 have been successfully treated and discharged, while 12 deaths were recorded—six at the hospital and the other six at home.”
He further explained that of the 50 samples sent to the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) for testing, 30 returned positive for cholera.
“I want to inform you all that we have received results of samples sent to NCDC for confirmation. Out of the 50 samples sent to the National Reference Laboratory in Abuja, 30 samples returned positive for cholera, six came back negative, two are still in isolation, and 12 are pending,” Tangwami stated.
Confirming the cholera outbreak in Adamawa State, he urged the public to take necessary precautions. “With these results, I want to confirm to the public that there is an outbreak of cholera in Adamawa State. People should be cautious of their movements, interactions, personal hygiene, and the source of water they drink,” Tangwami warned.
Despite the concerning figures, the Commissioner assured the public that the government is taking all necessary measures to contain the outbreak. “The government, through its health workers, is doing everything possible to contain the situation, as done in the past with other similar outbreaks in the state,” he said.
Tangwami called for public cooperation and calm, urging residents to heed advice from health workers. “We ask that people continue to pray for us as we face this challenge, remain calm, not panic, and cooperate with health workers as they go around to sensitise and give professional advice on how we should conduct ourselves,” he said.
He further assured the public that the government has provided all the necessary support to prevent the spread of the disease to other areas.
The affected locations in the state include Alkalawa, Doubeli, Rumde, and Gwadabawa in Yola-North local government area.
