WHO And Ondo State Join Forces To Prevent Cholera Epidemic

July 4, 2024 EMMANUEL ADEBAYO AJIBOLA

The World Health Organization (WHO) has donated infection prevention and control materials to the Ondo State Ministry of Health as part of efforts to prevent cholera outbreaks. This was announced by Bisi Lawani, the Press Officer of the Ministry, in a statement released in Akure, the state capital, on Wednesday.

According to Dr. Dele David, the WHO Coordinator, the organization has always been at the forefront of preventing outbreaks and fatalities in communities and among healthcare workers. This prompted the donation of infection prevention and control materials to ensure the safety of healthcare workers and communities. Dr. David also noted that WHO has been sustaining the Emergency Operations Centre during and after epidemics for effective planning and informed decision-making. He promised that WHO would continue to support states in Nigeria to ensure the highest sustainable health levels through collaboration with the government and other health sector partners.

Commissioner for Health, Dr. Banji Ajaka, while receiving the IPC materials, emphasized that Ondo State recorded two cases of cholera in March this year. The state managed to curtail the outbreak in Okitipupa Local Government Area due to its preparedness. He further stated, “The state is ready to combat any case of cholera as we have activated our surveillance in the 203 wards and the 18 local government areas in the state. Our disease surveillance notification officers are actively searching for and testing cases of vomiting and diarrhea.”

Dr. Ajaka also expressed the commitment of the State Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, to providing emergency preparedness funds to tackle cholera outbreaks swiftly. He commended the WHO for their support, particularly during the Owo Massacre, where WHO Representative Dr. Walter Mulombo provided drugs, health materials, and equipment for the victims.

In conclusion, Dr. Ajaka emphasized that the donated materials would help fight cholera and other epidemic-prone diseases, such as Lassa fever, and protect healthcare workers in the state.